Because these files are so important, the Windows operating system does not allow users to make changes to registry files directly.  Instead users must use a specially designed utility, known as the registry editor.  This program can be invoked by clicking on the Start button, choosing Run from the menu and typing regedit in the box.

When the registry editor appears, the structure will resemble that of Windows Explorer, with a hierarchical layout, folders and subfolders.  Users can drill down through these settings to find the entry, or registry key, they wish to change.

While manually editing the registry can sometimes be necessary, it can also be dangerous, and users are advised to always back up their registry before making even the smallest change.  Backing up the registry allows users to restore the file to its previous state should something go wrong.

Since the registry is so critical to the proper operation of the Windows operating system, it is also a good idea to run a quality registry cleaner on a regular basis.  Regular cleaning and optimizing of the Windows registry is one of the best ways to keep the system running its best and avoid problems down the road. Corrupted registry files and missing or extra registry keys can cause all sorts of issues, from unexpected system shutdowns and spontaneous reboots to sluggish performance.  By keeping the registry in good repair PC owners can harness the power of this vital file and keep their computer running at top speed.

Spyware and adware can also leave their marks on the registry.  Some malicious software programs try to burrow their way into the Windows registry, where they can hide from detection.  The registry keys created by these malicious programs can also wreak havoc on the computer, causing crashes, freezes and other serious problems.

When these problems take place computer users have a number of options at their disposal.  One of the easiest, and most effective, is to run a quality registry protection and cleaning program.  Running one of these programs on a regular basis can keep the system performance optimized and spot potential problems before they have a chance to crash the system.

The other option is for the user to edit the registry on their own.  This can be a viable option for those with the requisite skills, but it should always be done with caution.  It is important to make a backup copy of the registry before making any changes.  This will allow the original version of the registry to be restored in case there are issues down the road.

The first step is to open the registry using the Regedit tool.  This tool can be accessed by pressing the Start button, choosing Run from the menu and typing Regedit in the box.  The registry editor will then open and the user can navigate to the registry key that needs to be edited.  It is recommended that the registry be backed up before the key is changed.  It is easy to make a backup copy of anything from a single registry key to the entire registry by simply clicking File > Export and telling Windows where to save the backup copy of the file.  If the registry key needs to be restored later it can be brought back by using the File > Import utility.  The importance of backing up the registry cannot be overstated, and this simple step can save many hours of hassle should something go awry.