How to edit windows registry

How to edit Windows registry

Microsoft Windows contains two registry editors (Regedit and Regedt32) that you can use to change settings in your system registry, which stores information about how the hardware and software on your computer runs. To edit the system registry, click Start>Run, type regeidt or regedt32.

Each registry editor has advantages and disadvantages. You can perform most tasks with either registry editor, but certain tasks are easier with one registry editor.

The following are advantages of Regedt32:

Using the Security menu, you can check for and apply access permissions to subtrees, keys, and individual subkeys.
Each subtree is displayed in its own dedicated window, reducing clutter.
You can set an option to work in read-only mode.
You can edit values longer than 256 characters.
You can easily edit REG_MULTI_SZ entry values.
You can load multiple registry files at the same time.
The following are advantages of Regedit:
Regedit has more powerful search capabilities.
All the keys are visible in one Windows Explorer – like window.
You can bookmark favorite subkeys for fast access later on.
Regedit reopens to the subtree that was last edited.
You can export the registry to a text file.
You can import a registry file from the command line.

Warning: Incorrect use of the Windows registry editor may prevent the operating system from functioning properly. Great care should be taken when making changes to a Windows registry. Registry modifications should only be carried-out by persons experienced in the use of the registry editor application. It is recommended that a complete backup of the registry and workstation be made prior to making any registry changes.

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