Backup Your Registry

The Windows registry is a hierarchical database of all users, applications and hardware devices on the PC. A corrupt registry can ruin your Windows installation and leave you with the options to reinstall or possible import a backup copy of the registry. Whenever you plan on making any major changes to a system, it's a good idea to make a fresh copy of the registry and keep it in a safe place in the unfortunate event you have problems.

You can backup the entire registry, or if you're experienced enough you can backup only the subtree in which you'll be making changes. Backing up the entire database is fast, so making a full backup is generally recommended.

Backup The Subtree

You can export the registry for the subtree by going to Start, then Run and type regedit. Navigate to the subtree you want to backup and click on it. Next go to File, then Export. Save the subtree to a floppy.

Backup Entire Registry

To backup the entire registry, we'll use the backup utility included in Windows. Go to Start, All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, then Backup. Run the Backup Wizard as shown and select Only Backup The System State Data. This will backup the registry, the COM+ class registration database, files under Windows File Protection, and boot files. Save these to a floppy disk and remove from the PC before making any changes.

Third Party Tools

There are a lot of good third-party tools for repairing the system registry. These programs perform housekeeping that can repair minor errors and make sure you do not encounter problems. But it is still recommended that you make periodic, manual backups to restore you computer in case you have a problem.

If you have any questions regarding the Windows registry, please join our message board today!