The Registry Editor is a program used within Windows to modify the Windows registry. The registry is basically a database where Windows and other
software will store their settings. Since many settings are stored in the registry it is generally not recommended to access the Registy Editor unless you need to do so by
a repair technician or a troubleshooting article. Improper use of the Registry Editor can cause Windows to become stuck in a corrupted and non-bootable state. Use caution when
using the Registry Editor.
Accessing the Registry Editor
Accessing the Registry Editor in Windows XP
1:
Boot up your computer into Windows XP.
2:
Click on the Start button.
3:
Click on Run.
4:
In the run box type in regedit.ext then click OK.
Accessing the Registry Editor in Windows Vista and Windows 7
1:
Boot up your computer into Windows.
2:
Click on the Start button.
3:
in the Search box type in regedit.ext.
4:
Double-click on the regedit.ext listing.
Accessing the Registry Editor in Windows 8
Method 1
1:
Boot up your computer into Windows 8.
2:
Press the Windows key and the R on the keyboard.
3:
In the run box type in regedit.ext then click OK.
Method 2
1:
Boot up your computer into Windows 8.
2:
Open the charm bar.
3:
Click on Search.
4:
Type in regedit.
5:
Click on the Regedit result that shows up.
Using the Registry Editor
Once you have opened up the Registry Editor you will notice that the program is split into two sections. The left side shows the various registy keys, also called hives,
and the right side shows the various data inside the registry keys. Working with the program is pretty simple. Clicking the plus next to a registry key will expand it while right clicking on a registry key
will give you various options to modify it.
On the right side of the Registry Editor you can create, delete, and modify key values. You can do this by right clicking on the mouse and choosing the new option then choosing the needed sub option.
Please note that removing a value or creating a value may cause problems. It is not recommended to just start modifying the registry unless you are told so by a repair technician or by following the steps from a troubleshooting
article.
Lastly here is some information on the main registry keys or also called hives. HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT - This hive will contain settings for file extensions, OLE, and register applications. HKEY_CURRENT_USER - This hive will contain settings for the currently logged on user. HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE - THis hive will contain settings that are system wide. These settings will generally apply to all users. HKEY_USERS - This hive will contain settings for the user accounts. HKEY_CURRENT_CONFIG - This hive will contain settings that are gathered during Windows boot up.
