The system configuration information is stored centrally in a hierarchical database called the registry. You can use the Registry Editor to add and edit registry keys and values, restore the registry from a backup or to default values, and to import or export keys for reference or backup.

A word of caution – incorrectly editing the registry may severely damage your system. Before making changes to the registry, you should save a copy in a safe place such as, to an external drive or USB device.

The backup is done using the export function within the Registry editor. Export the registry file as follows:

Custom Search

1. Open the Registry editor by typing regedit in the Search text box from the Start menu
2. On the file menu, click Export
   
   
3. In the File Name, enter a name for the backup registry file and destination location, choose a removeable media if available
4. In Save as type, select the file type Registration files (*.reg)
5. In Export Range, check the option All to save the entire registry
6. Click Save

Importing the registry file

1. Open Registry Editor by typing regedit in the Search text box from the Start menu
2. On the File menu, click Import
3. Find the file you want to import, click the file to select it, and then click Open

Note: In Windows Explorer, double-clicking a file with the .reg extension imports the file into the computer’s registry.
Last warning: A restored file overwrites an existing one and becomes the active registry of your configuration and hence, any modifications done after the backed up registry are lost!

Last 3 posts by George

• Virtualized Environments' Challenges - September 7th, 2010
• Organizational IT Risks - August 24th, 2010
• How can online criminals steal our credit card information? - August 16th, 2010