NOTE: Making changes to the registry can cause serious harm to your computer if done incorrectly. Always backup your registry before making any changes.
Tutorials for backup of the registry
General registry tweaks
- Three XP registry hacks to improve your system.
- Move My Computer to the top of the list.
- Speed up Internet Explorer
- Windows XP Balloon Tip Removal
- Change Internet Explorer's Default Download Directory
- Sort IE Favorites Menu Alphabetically
- Enable/Disable Tool Tips
- Enable/Disable CD AutoRun
- Customized Logon Screen
- QOS Bandwidth Reserve Setting
- Change Registered Owner For Windows
What is the registry?
The registry is a database that stores configuration data to be used by Windows. It consists of 5 different "KEYS". They are:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE: Information for all data about installed hardware and software.
- HKEY_CURRENT_CONFIG: Pulls data from the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE key dealing with the active hardware configuration.
- HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT: Stores information about file types and OLE aware applications.
- HKEY_USERS: configuration information for all user profiles.
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER: Pulls data from the HKEY_USERS key pertaining to the current user.
You can also check out what Microsoft has to say about the registry.
Below you will find an index of articles I've written detailing some of the registry hacks I've learned over the years. I have tried all of them, some I've found extremely useful and some only moderately so. If you have any questions you can email me or click "Start a Discussion".
NOTE: Making changes to the registry can cause serious harm to your computer if done incorrectly. Always backup your registry before making any changes.
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