The registry is perhaps one of the most important components in the matrix of the operating system. While it is quite small in size, the registry represents the nexus in which everything about the computer from program installs to new hardware is logged into the registry. Command lines, which point Windows to the right direction on how programs utilise files and where to find them are also a feature within the computer registry. Also, embedded keys and values that give each and every program and hardware a distinct identity are also placed within the registry. Windows uses it as both a logbook as well as a referral for it to launch programs and carry out the day-to-day operations within the PC.



This is how crucial the Windows registry is, because without the registry, the OS would cease to function. How many times have we seen error reports or a simple black screen stating that Windows cannot load because of a missing or corrupt registry? So, now that you know the importance of the Windows registry, you should realise what you need to do to take care of it. How it can be compromised is an eclectic landscape of reasons. The Windows registry is vulnerable to attacks from viruses and Trojans, which can add bad command lines, delete values and simply just corrupt the registry.

While an anti virus can prevent them from infecting the system most of the time, it does not have the delicate tools necessary to ensure that the registry remains free from attack and that its program integrity does not get compromised. Other elements it can be vulnerable to are malware and ad ware, which will try to infiltrate the registry and change certain command lines so that they can have access to other parts of the computer. Bad program installs and deletion of critical software abruptly can also affect the registry as null values and orphan lines can be produced as a result. Even bad install have the same effect on the registry. These are just some of the ways that it can be affected and to be honest, the list is quite extensive.

The errors on a registry can show themselves as runtime errors, active x errors, programs refusing to launch, hangs in the computer, bad installs, windows installer errors, visual basics running amok - just some examples at how bad the problem can actually get. What you need to do is to constantly clean and maintain the registry through the use of a registry cleaner, which you can acquire online. Most of them are free and they are pretty good at maintaining the integrity of the registry so that any problems associated with it do not plague your computer. If you've ever encountered some of the problems listed here and cannot seem to find the root of the problem, then the best idea for you before you go to a computer repairmen or a software expert is to download a registry and PC cleaner and scan your computer for any registry errors. 90% of these problems can be solved by a good version of these cleaners.