How to Enable Registry Editor in Windows XP

Enable the Registry Editor if you want to make changes to your registry.

A computer's registry contains Windows system information that is essential for the proper operation of the operating system. The Registry Editor, or regedit, is a tool that allows users to make changes to the registry. This tool may become disabled due to a virus, which can cause problems in the unlikely event that a Windows XP user has to edit his registry. Fortunately, there is a way to get the Registry Editor up and working again.

Instructions

1. Click on the "Start" menu in the lower-left corner of the screen.

2. Select "Run."

3. Enter "REG add HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System
   /v DisableRegistryTools /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f" and click "OK."

4. Reboot your computer to complete the process and enable the Registry Editor.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid editing your registry if you aren't sure how to perform the task. Making one simple mistake when editing the registry can cause your operating system to become unstable, which may require that you reformat your computer.

References

• Tech Tips Geek: 5 Ways to Re-enable Registry Editor When Disabled By Virus
• Ramesh's Site: Error "Registry Editing has been disabled by your administrator