What Is Windows Registry | How To Use Windows Registry

How many times you came across in this web that i am talking about windows registry? Many times i have guided you to access the Windows Registry and make changes. Though I try to make executable registry hacks in most cases, it can be fun to script or create your own registry files.

Related Links:

How To Backup Windows Registry

How To Use The Start Menu Search Box

Before doing anything with the Windows Registry, you should know what the registry is, how to back it up, how to restore it to a previous state, and how to add keys and values. This post is applicable to - Windows XP, Windows Vista And Windows 7.

Warning: before you try to have fun with windows registry, learn how to backup windows registry. Also try to have a backup of your registry at this stage before you proceed. Read More On How To Backup Windows Registry.

What is the Windows Registry?

Think of the Windows registry as a control center for your computer. Windows settings, individual program settings, and other important configuration information are stored here.

Access the Windows Registry Editor

To access the Windows Registry, press the start button, type regedit, and press Enter. (works with windows vista and windows 7).

For windows XP users, type regedit in run window from start menu.

Problem running regedit? just check my earlier tutorial on how to use the start menu search box.

The registry is made up of the following components:

Keys
Subkeys
Values

Add Keys or Values

In some of the tutorials (not just in my tutorial), you will need to create a new key or value.

Add a New Key

To add a new key, do the following:

1. Right click on the parent key

2. Select New - Key (refer below screen shot)

3. Follow the (guide’s) instructions for what key name to assign.

Add a New Value

To add a new value, do the following:

1. Navigate to the key that you want to add a value to.

2. Right click in the blank space of the right pane.

3. Select New - anyvalue (Where anyvalue is the value specified in the guide).

4. Follow the guide’s instructions for what value to assign.

In a way, the Windows Registry is a weak link in the operating system’s stability and robustness. It’s remarkably easy to damage, but very difficult to repair. Before doing anything with the Windows Registry, you should know how to back it up and how to restore it to a previous state. Just follow this link to read more on backing up windows registry.

Related Links:

How To Backup Windows Registry