What is Windows Registry?

Since the introduction of Windows 95, Windows has utilized an operating system with a centralized database that stores all of the computer's system settings, including all changes, configurations and user preferences. This central database is commonly known as the Windows registry, or just simply the registry. With any new process, for example, when a user installs new software, the new information is immediately stored in the system registry, and the information stored is referenced by the operating system during the operation of the software. As such, we can see that the registry is a central part of the entire Windows operating system: in fact, without the registry, Windows would be unable to run at all.

As stated, the installation of any new hardware or software causes the configuration of that piece of hardware or software to be stored in the registry. The purpose of this is that it enables Windows to access the information at different points-for example, when the system starts up. At start up, Windows reads the registry configuration in order to ascertain which drivers must be loaded and which settings to apply-as well as what must be allocated to allow the system to work. Also, as well as OS settings, the registry stores user preferences as well as settings for your applications. For instance, when you alter the background on your desktop, the new details are recorded in the registry. Then, on shutting down and re-booting, the new preferences are there and are automatically applied.

As such, the registry is crucial for all information for the operating system-as well as the customizing of Windows to the user's preferences. It is easy to see just what a central part of your entire system the registry is, and just how catastrophic it might be should any problem assail it. In light of this, it is a good idea to ensure that your registry is kept well maintained, and in order to do so, you can run a semi-regular Windows registry cleaner that will scan your registry for any problems and will be able to fix any issues that arise. You will be thankful for this when your computer runs at peak speed and never suffers the system crashes and slow-downs that seem to afflict your friends and colleagues.