What Is The Computer Registry?
May 11th, 2011 Mehmet Onatli
A computer registry is a database which holds certain information, settings, and other values of the operating systems. It includes a record of the hardware, the operating system, the computer memory, user settings, and the necessary application programs. It holds the major controls and fixtures of the computer system. It consists of a set of instructions your computer uses to function properly and carry out the commands.
The registry is commonly associated with Microsoft Windows operating systems which started of with Windows 95 version. This is available on Microsoft Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows NT, Windows 2000, Windows ME, and Windows XP Operating Systems. This is similar to and a replacement for the simpler INI (initialization) and configuration files used in early Windows DOS-based systems.
Registry has equivalent terms in other operating systems. Under Linux, configuration files are stored in files called /etc/ while Mac OS typically store settings in property list files. IBM AIX operating system uses a registry component called Object Data Manager (OBM) while the GNOME desktop environment uses a registry-like interface called GConf. Terms vary in each operating system but they have a general function as computer registry.
It is in the registry that we do certain changes and fix a lot of issues on your operating system. Those that are highly experienced and experts in computer prefer to go directly into the registry and perform the necessary set-ups and modifications. To get into the Windows registry, on the Run command, type 'regedit'. However, careless editing can cause to damages which may not be reversible. Hence, performing registry backups are very much recommended before editing the registry. While general users are not much confident on going directly into the registry, they update indirectly using the Control Panel tools. Any changes done through Control Panel tools update the registry. Similarly, when you install or uninstall hardware and programs, you are also updating the registry.
In a network environment, registry information can be kept on a server to manage centrally the system settings for each user or workgroups. Others employ user authorizations and administration on carrying out the updates through the Control Panel while some restrict access on this to avoid any troubles and inconsistencies that may arise.
Negligence or laxity of safeguarding a computer registry is a nuisance. The more programs installed in your computer, the greater possible clutter it will create. It will bring much mess in your computer system without proper maintenance of registry. Just like any ordinary folders and records which need to be filed and cleaned regularly, a computer registry must also be maintained to get into a proper system condition and to function well. And like anybody else, without having much trouble on manually updating your registry and unintentionally destructing it, you would want a tool or facility that is capable of performing automatic updates and maintenance of your computer registry. There are various available tools highly recommended that can help you get out of worry. There are available software registry cleaners that can maintain your system, fix any system errors and crashes, and can optimize the performance of your computer.
Carefully select the software for cleaning your computer registry. Beware of those unsolicited emails and pop ups on your computer with aggressive advertisements to clean your registry. You might not know these are often scams and will deposit more unwanted items on your computer causing more hassles and bothersome.About the Author:
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