How to Clean XP Registry Entries

The Windows XP registry is a large database containing settings and configurations of system components, hardware and software. Whenever you install programs, entries are installed in the registry. Because it suffers great usage, it becomes vulnerable to clutter that occurs when programs are improperly uninstalled, or from poor system configurations. Cleaning the Windows XP registry is essential in keeping your computer healthy. It can be performed safely and easily using a registry cleaner program.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• CCleaner

1. Download CCleaner free (see Resources) and install it on your computer. CCleaner is a free easy-to-use registry cleaner that works in Windows XP to remove unnecessary registry entries.

2. Launch your program after it has installed and click the "Registry" button on the left panel. Place a check on all the options on the "Registry Integrity" window and click "Scan for issues." CCleaner will search the registry for missing dll and ActiveX files, MUI cache, unused file extensions and left over entries for uninstalled applications.

3. Click "Fix selected issues" when the scan is complete and click "Yes" to backup the registry when prompted to. Type in a name for the registry backup and click "Save."

4. Click "Fix all Selected Issues" when the backup is complete and click "OK" to remove unnecessary registry entries and fix missing file extensions. Close CCleaner to complete the cleaning process.

Tips & Warnings

• Properly uninstall programs and applications to minimize clutter in the registry. There are other registry cleaning programs you can checkout such as Registry Mechanic (see Resources) if you are interested in a different program.
• It is not advisable to manually clean your registry because it is extremely difficult and you run the risk of severely damaging your computer.

References

• CCleaner Registry Cleaning

Resources

• CCleaner Download
• Registry Mechanic