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Windows 2000/XP Registry Rebuild

This one is so good that I thought it deserved its own page. Its just a matter of time before everyone else starts recommending this one. This is one I have been trying to figure out since way back when I started using Windows 2000. The process eludes me no more. Basically we need a tool which can backup and restore the registry. However, the backup of the registry must not be a simple file copy, but an actual rewrite of the actual registry database. This can be done in two ways. One requires a dual boot with Windows XP, the other requires commercial software. I am looking for a freeware tool which performs the same functions, so email me if you can recommend one.

Why?

The registry is a database containing information about software, hardware and settings of your machine. Information gets written, deleted and written again. After installation of a number of programs, the information in the registry becomes fragmented. A fragmented registry is naturally slower to load and slower to search. Defragmented information in the registry will lead to faster boot times and faster program launches. This can make a huge improvement in the usability of that older installation of Windows.

Warning - Tampering with the Windows registry can cause irreparable damage to your Windows installation. Be warned.

Dual Boot Method

Boot to Windows XP. Launch the registry editor by going to Start > Run > Regedit

Browse to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE. Go to File > Load Registry Hive and browse to your Windows installation. Located in %Windows Directory%\system32\config are your registry hives. The files of interest are "system" and "software". Load both files using names of your choice. Select the newly loaded software key. Next, go to File > Export. Use "software" as the name and save to a location of your choice. Select the newly loaded system key. Next, go to File > Export. Use "system" as the name and save to a location of your choice. Reboot to Windows XP again. Backup your registry files from %Windows Directory%\system32\config and replace the "system" and "software" hives with the newly created ones. Reboot to your Windows installation and enjoy.

Registry Backup and Restore Method

Registry Cleaner form http://www.registry-cleaner.net/ is the recommended tool.

Using the registry software, create a backup of your registry. Restore backup. Simple. Smooth. Perfect.

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