The Windows registry is a directory which stores all the important hardware and operations settings for all versions of Microsoft Windows, including Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, etc.
Over time, this registry can become corrupted and unorganized and you install new programs, uninstall programs, and by spyware and viruses. Often, when you are uninstalling software, it can leave invalid entries in the registry. This can result in a slower computer, frequent errors and system crashes, and other unexplained issues. This is why it’s important to regularly clean your Windows system registry.
The way to fix this is to do a Registry scan and then clean or repair your registry. This needs to be done at regular intervals. You will then find that this will speed up your computer, reduce the computer errors and keep it running smoothly.
You can edit this registry yourself but it is strongly advised that if you are not an expert then leave it alone! Careless editing can cause irreversible damage to your computer – and expensive repair bills.
The easiest way to clean your registry to use registry cleaner software, of which there are several great options (free and paid) that can be downloaded from the internet. As you only need to use this a few times a year you will obviously not want to spend too much money, which makes the free options a great choice.
There are numerous registry cleaners for Windows and a quick search on Download.com will provide great, reliable and trusted software.
The good cleaners all do a good job and tend to be very similar in scope, with each usually only differing in the user interface. A good piece of advice is to search for reviews and see what other people have to say.
Finally, whether the software has backup or not, it is strongly recommended that you create a System Restore point before running any registry software.
If you have not done this before this can usually quickly and easily be found via the Control Panel/Performance And Maintenance/System Restore or for Windows 7, click Start, All Programs /Accessories/System Tools/System Restore.
This will help you keep your registry clean and it is one of the computer maintenance steps that will help you enjoy a faster, more efficient computer that won’t frustrate you.
