SP1 takes a lot of space?

You're welcome, mjf.

LOL @whs. Ten or eleven years ago, someone suggested Incredimail to me. I couldn't deal with all that "cuteness".

Corrine said:

Hi, mjf.

The reason for the recommendation to wait before removing the SP1 installation files is to ensure there are no issues. Just because everything seems fine immediately after installation does not mean that there are no issues with all installed software on the computer. people have tested all the programs on their computer.

At this point there are only two known programs that do not work after the installation of SP1 and two that lose functionality after install. That is not to say that the list could not grow as more people install the service pack. Should such a program be "business critical", not having the ability to uninstall SP1 could cause a hardship.

As to your situation, mjf, no, I do not think it is necessary to re-image and reinstall SP1.

Bill2 said:

Beg to differ with you slightly there Corrine- people/organizations that need to ensure anything business-critical is not killed by SP1 are far better off using MS's service pack blocker kit.

Download details: Windows Service Pack Blocker Tool Kit

Nobody in that situation would install SP1 heedlessly, then "hope" all their software works well with it.

You both make good points, but for the "everyday avarage home" user I have to go with Corrine's thoughts.

As for how long to hold on to those backup files - it depends on drive space and how comfortable you are with your system. If you do regular backups/images than you could probably get rid of them right away. That's but one example.

My two cents.