The Windows Registry comprises keys and values that let Windows know what options to use for its hardware, software, tools, and other features. You can use the Windows Registry to your advantage and benefit in various circumstances, but you must first understand how to access it to use it. So, in this article, you will find multiple ways to open Registry Editor in Windows. Read on to find out more.
What is a Registry Editor?
The Registry is a database where Windows stores configuration settings and options for the Windows operating system and its software. To edit the Registry, Windows offers Registry Editor. It is available with all Windows versions and allows users to alter the Windows Registry manually. The Windows Registry comprises registry keys and values, which you may view, create, and modify using Registry Editor.
Note: Always use the Registry Editor with utmost caution. Incorrect registry editing can lead to significant issues, such as inoperable PC and data loss. Make sure to create a registry backup before making any changes. We have also explained how it is possible to restore the backup, so ensure you read about it.
How to Open the Registry Editor in Windows (Multiple Ways)
On a Windows PC, you can use the following techniques to launch the Registry Editor or REGEDIT:
- Search Box
- Run Dialog
- Windows Terminal or PowerShell
- File Explorer
- Create a Shortcut
It will work for all users, but to access Registry edi
1] Search Box
The first method is quite simple. All you have to do is type regedit into the Windows search bar and select the Registry Editor option from the result to open the Registry Editor window.
Additional options, such as Open, Run as administrator, Open File Location, Pin to Start, and Pin to Taskbar, might also be visible in the right pane.
2] Run Dialogue
In this method, you can use the Run prompt to open the Registry Editor:
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialogue box and type regedit into the search box, and press OK or press the Enter key.
- Press Yes to launch the Registry Editor when the User Access Control prompt appears.
- The Registry Editor window will open.
3] Windows Terminal or PowerShell
You can open the Registry Editor via Windows Terminal or Windows Powershell in the following method.
Here is how you open the Registry Editor via Windows Terminal.
- Right-click on the Windows logo on your PC and click on the Windows Terminal option from the context menu. Or, type Windows Powershell into the Windows search bar and click on the result to open it.
- Type regedit the Terminal window and press Enter. The Registry Editor window will launch.
4] File Explorer
In this method, you can open the Registry Easily through Windows File Explorer. Here is how to go about it:
- Press Windows key + E to open File Explorer.
- Click on This PC from the left pane of your window. Next, click on the folder where your operating system is installed. (Usually, it is in the Local Disk (C:) folder.)
- From the next window, click on the Windows folder. Please scroll down and locate the System32 folder, and double-click it to open it.
- On the top right corner of the search bar, type or copy and paste regedt32.exe and press Enter or click the arrow.
The Registry Editor window will open, and you can begin to make changes.
5] Create a Shortcut
You might want to have a shortcut for the Registry Editor if you prefer having shortcuts for all the essential Windows PC applications. Regedit should be the shortcut’s target when creating one. The Registry Editor will open when you double-click or double-tap on the shortcut.
- Right-click on a blank space on your desktop and click on New > Shortcut to open the Create Shortcut window.
- Copy and paste path
C:\Windows\regedit.exeand click the Next button. - Under Type a name for this shortcut, type Registry Editor, and click the Finish button.
A shortcut icon for the Registry Editor will be created on your desktop.
Conclusion
So, these are the multiple ways to open and use the Registry Editor. But, before using the Registry Editor, it is essential to understand how to back up and restore when needed. While the Run prompt is the easiest way to open the Registry Editor, a shortcut might be even more beneficial if you need it daily.
How Do I Find a Specific Key in the Registry Editor?
To find a specific key in the Registry Editor, you can use the “Find” function, which allows you to search for a specific key, value, or data in the Registry. Here’s how to use it:
- Open the Registry Editor
- Press Ctrl + F on your keyboard to open the Find function.
- In the Find what field, enter the key, value, or data you want to search for.
- Click on the Find Next button to search for the first instance of the key, value, or data.
- Use the Find Next button to find any other instances of the key, value, or data.
- Use the Find Prev button to go back to the previous instance.
You can also use the Find by browsing the registry tree on the left side of the Registry Editor. You can expand and collapse the folders to navigate through the different sections of the Registry, and when you find the key you are looking for, double-click on it to open and see its values.
