Windows Registry Keys List Review

| Path | Key Settings | |------|---------------| | HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System | Enable/disable UAC, Ctrl+Alt+Del requirements | | HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer | Hide drives, disable registry tools | | HKLM\SECURITY | Only accessible by SYSTEM – local security policies | | HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer | User-level restrictions |

HKCU is actually a subkey (pointer) within this root. HKEY_CURRENT_CONFIG (HKCC): Provides information about the hardware profile used by the local computer at system startup. Microsoft Learn +5 Common Key Locations While there are thousands of keys, these paths are frequently used for troubleshooting and customization: Startup Programs: HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run (User-specific startup) HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run (System-wide startup) Installed Software: HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall (List of installed programs for the Add/Remove Programs menu). System Services: HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services (Configures drivers and Windows services). Microsoft Learn +3 Common Data Types Each key contains "Values" that store actual data in various formats: Microsoft Learn REG_SZ: A standard text string. REG_DWORD: A 32-bit number (often used for simple "0" or "1" on/off settings). REG_BINARY: Raw binary data. REG_EXPAND_SZ: An "expandable" string that includes variables like windows registry keys list

Keep in mind that modifying the registry can be hazardous, and it's essential to back up the registry before making changes. It's also recommended to exercise caution when editing the registry, as incorrect changes can cause system instability or even prevent Windows from functioning properly. | Path | Key Settings | |------|---------------| |

Manages file associations, ensuring the correct program opens when you double-click a file (e.g., .txt files opening in Notepad). REG_BINARY: Raw binary data

| Path | Key Settings | |------|---------------| | HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\FileSystem | NTFS features (8.3 filenames, last access updates) | | HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session Manager\Memory Management | LargeSystemCache, Paging files, DEP | | HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Multimedia\SystemProfile | Multimedia scheduling priority |

: Stores information on file name extensions, OLE object Class IDs, and file associations.