How to Make Changes to a Registry File in Vista to Attach to a Domain

A Windows domain is a centrally administrated network. A domain includes servers providing authentication, file and print services, as well as workstations that access these services. Like previous versions of Windows, Vista stores all settings in the registry, including network memberships in workgroups and domains. You can change this information directly in the registry using a program called "regedit". However, there is a simpler and safer way to attach your Windows Vista system to a domain in the Control Panel.

Instructions

1. Open the "Start" menu, and click "Control Panel."

2. Click the "System" icon in the "System and Maintenance" section.

3. Click "Change Settings" in the "Computer name, domain, and workgroup settings" portion of the window.

4. Click "Change" in the dialog box that appears.

5. Click "Domain" in the "Member of" field, and enter the name of the domain.

6. Enter the user name and password of a domain administrator.

7. Restart the computer for the changes to take effect.

Tips & Warnings

• The same method works for both wired and wireless computers.

References

• Microsoft Technet: Joining a Windows Vista Wired Client to a Domain