Windows XP Windows directory is huge!

1) Delete all *.tmp files, ~*.*, Temporary Internet Files, and c:\windows\prefretch files. Defrag and test. If you have already cleared out the temps, then boot to Recovery Console and run a chkdsk /r on the boot drive. Then test.

2) Have you run Disk Cleanup on your computer?
support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;310312

3) Are you running System Restore in the background? (This is installed in the ON fashion usually, and it'll eat up disk space as it creates a new restore point every time you install something or by default every x days).
support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;300044

You can view the entire contents of the windows directory to locate the source of what is using your disk space by opening a command prompt and typing:

c:\dir c:\windows /s /os > c:\windows\winlog.txt

This will list all directories, subdirectories, and their files, from smallest to largest, and save it to a file called winlog.txt so that you can view it or print it.

try this:
Internet Explorer/Tools/Internet Options/General tab/Delete files-check box that says delete offline content. it may take quit a while...
then,
Tools/Internet Options/General tab/Settings. reduce amount of hard disk space allocated to temporary internet files.

This explains a lot. The CSC folder is the hidden offline files folder. When offline files are in use, copies of network files are stored on the hard disk so they are available when the machine is no longer on the network. This is most commonly usedon laptops.

Open My Computer. Click on Tools -> Folder Options. Click on the "Offline Files" tab. In this window you can adjust the amount of space the CSC foler is allowed to use. If you click on the "View Files" button, you can see all the files and delete those you do not use.