What is the Windows Registry?

The Windows registry is a database that controls the
options and settings in the "32 bit" versions of Microsoft
Windows, which are Windows 95, 98, ME, NT, 2000 and XP.

More specifically, it contains information that controls
the settings for hardware, software, users, preferences and
security for the computer.

Why is the registry important?

Much of the way that your computer functions depends upon
the settings in the registry. By making changes to settings
in the Control Panel, in the Administrative settings area
or to installed software, the changes are updated in the
registry.

Where is the registry located?

The location of the registry files varies from one version
of Windows to another.

In Windows 95 and 98 the two hidden files that make up the
registry are called user.dat and system.dat and are located
in the main Windows directory.

Windows ME adds a third file, called classes.dat

In Windows NT and 2000, the files are located in the
%SystemRoot%\System32\Config directory. %SystemRoot% refers
to the "root" location on your hard drive where Windows is
installed, normally C:\WINNT. Windows XP uses a different
system to store the registry files.

What can I do with the registry?

By changing the Windows registry, you can effectively
"tweak" the way that Windows (and any installed program)
behaves.

By knowing how to back up and restore your Windows registry,
you can be assured that you can repair any damage that may
occur to your computer and your working environment.

How do I edit the registry?

[Warning: Before editing the Windows registry, always be sure
you have a current backup of the registry files, and know the
correct way to restore the files if necessary.]

In order to edit the registry, you need to use a tool known
as the "Registry Editor".

When editing the registry, you will notice that the structure
looks similar to the directory structure of your hard drive.

The registry editor, called "regedit.exe" (or "regedt32.exe"
for Windows NT, 2000 and XP) can be run from the command line
by clicking Start / Run, and typing "regedit" in the "Open"
field (type "regedt32" for NT, 2000 or XP).

How can I learn more about the Windows registry?

For an easy guide to getting started with the Windows
registry (no "techie" skills necessary), visit:

http://www.eagleflyer.com/a/nc/rfn.html

For even more information visit the following sites:

http://www.winguides.com/registry/

http://www.mdgx.com/reg.htm

For no-cost registry monitoring software visit:

http://www.sysinternals.com/ntw2k/source/regmon.shtml

Once you begin to understand what the Windows registry is
and how it works, you can begin to gain more control over
your working environment.

By starting with some basic information, and taking it one
step at a time, you can easily "tweak" the Windows registry,
take control of your computer and fine tune your business.

Ralph Moore, Editor - Eagle Flyer Newsletter - Get Your
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