University Computer Help Desk

Backing up and restoring registry keys in Windows

Before you make changes to the Windows registry, you should backup the pertinent registry keys or the entire registry.

What is the Windows Registry?

All versions of Windows use a common registry. The registry is used by Windows to control hardware, software, the environment, and the "look and feel" of the Windows interface.

The registry looks similar to Windows Explorer; it uses folders, which are called "keys," and a directory structure to store settings and configuration information. The registry works the same way on all versions of Windows.

Important!
Editing the Windows registry incorrectly can cause serious problems to the operating system. These problems may prevent Windows from booting properly and may result in data loss. It is highly recommended that you make backups prior to making changes to the registry.

Backing Up Registry Keys

Before you make changes to the registry, you should always make a backup copy of the key you are about to change.

  1. Click Start > Run.
  2. Type regedit and press Enter.
  3. Navigate to the location of the registry that you intend to modify. Select the key that contains the value or values you intend to modify.
  4. From the menu at the top click File > Export....
  5. Select Desktop from the Save in: drop-down menu.
  6. In the box labeled File name: enter a file name that reflects the key you’re backing up.
  7. Click Save.

The registry key you specified and all its subkeys have been backed up.

Backing up the Entire Registry

To be safe, it is recommended that you backup the entire registry (instead of just the registry key you are working on).

  1. Click Start > Run.
  2. Type regedit and press Enter.
  3. From the menu at the top select File > Export....
  4. Select Desktop from the Save in: drop-down menu.
  5. In the box labeled File name: type Full Registry Backup.
  6. Select All in the Export Range section.
  7. Click Save.

The entire registry has been backed up.

Restoring to the Registry from a Backup

If you need to restore the registry to its previous state, you may do so with a registry backup file. The procedure is the same regardless of whether you are restoring a single key that you've backed up or the entire registry.

  1. Locate the registry file you saved to your desktop.
  2. Double-click on the file.
  3. Click Yes when asked if you are sure you want to add the information to the registry.

The registry will immediately revert to the previous settings defined in the registry backup file.

Article Information

  • Article ID: 1115
  • Last Review: May 13, 2009
  • Type: Instructions

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