Registry Maintenance

Registry:
In the Microsoft Windows operating systems beginning with Windows 95, the registry is a single place for keeping such information as what hardware is attached, what system options have been selected, how computer memory is set up, and what application programs are to be present when the operating system is started. The registry is somewhat similar to and a replacement for the simpler INI (initialization) and configuration files used in earlier Windows (DOS-based) systems. INI files are still supported, however, for compatibility with the 16-bit applications written for earlier systems.Ê In more recent versions of Windows such as XP, registry is a component of the ãSystem State,ä but it functions in a similar fashion.

 

In general, the user updates the registry indirectly using Control Panel tools. When you install or uninstall application programs, they also update the registry. In an advanced network environment, registry information can be kept on a server so that system policies for individuals and workgroups can be managed centrally.Ê Anti-virus programs and spyware removers can also make changes to your registry, so it is a good idea to make sure you have a working backup of your registry before performing security scans.

 

The Registry is necessary to proper functioning of the machine; therefore, regular registry maintenance is necessary.

 

Registry Maintenance:

It is a good idea to make regularly scheduled (daily or weekly) backups of your registry because any program you install (intentionally or unintentionally) may damage your registry, without which your machine will not function properly.Ê Depending on your Operating System, the following links below should provide detailed tutorials on how to do this.Ê You may also find copies of the articles on the Conference CD.

 

This packet as well as the Conference CDRom was made possible in part by contributions from students at the LBJ Graduate School of Public Affairs, participating in a Policy Research Project:Ê http://www.communitynetworking.org