How to Remove Windows Live Messenger Registry

Windows Live Messenger is an instant-messaging service that allows a user to talk with other people over the Internet. Messenger comes installed on the default settings of more recent Windows operating systems. Like anything installed on the computer, Messenger has keys in the registry. If a user wishes to completely uninstall Windows Messenger from the OS, he will need to access the registry and delete these keys.

Instructions

1. Click the "Start" button and type "CMD" in the "Start Search" box. Press the "Enter" key on the keyboard.

2. In the command prompt, type "REG DELETE "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows Live\Messenger' /f" and hit "Enter."

3. Type "REG DELETE HKLM\Software\Microsoft\MSNMessenger /f" and hit "Enter."

4. Type "REG DELETE HKCU\Software\Microsoft\MSNMessenger /f" and hit "Enter."

5. Type "REG DELETE "HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows Live\Communications Clients\Shared" /f" and hit "Enter."

6. Type "REG DELETE HKCU\Software\Microsoft\IdentityCRL /f" and hit "Enter."

7. Reboot the computer.

Tips & Warnings

• Some changes to the registry cannot be undone and can cause permanent damage to the Windows OS.

References

• Windows Live:Clean Installation of Windows Live Messenger -- Windows Vista