Using Regedit

As I mentioned earlier, the Windows XP version version of the Regedit.exe utility is very much like the application included with Windows 95/98/ME and Windows NT/2000. However, the version included with Windows XP has many improvements and now integrates the functionality that earlier was available only in Regedt32.exe.

Like other utilities, this one is installed by default. However, the Setup program doesn't create a shortcut for this program and doesn't include it in the Start menu. The next section of this chapter contains a brief description of the Regedit.exe user interface, which can be used as a reference on all functions of this registry editor.

Note 

Regedit.exe, especially the version supplied with Windows XP, is easy to use. The difficult task is making sure any registry modifications to the hardware configuration are correct. Because of this, I'd recommend that you don't make any registry modifications without first reading this chapter. It provides detailed instructions on registry editing, and also some useful tips. Incorrect modifications introduced into the registry can result in software failures or even make your system unbootable. I'd recommend that you make a backup copy of the system registry, using any of the techniques shown in Chapter 2, before you proceed any further. Specifically, prepare the Automated System Recovery (ASR) and make a backup copy of the System State data. The boot diskette created for Windows NT/2000/XP may also be helpful when eliminating possible problems.