How to Save a Copy of Regedit in Windows Vista

The Windows Registry stores virtually every setting on your PC for system hardware, installed applications and user profiles or settings. When using Windows Vista, the operating constantly relies on the information in the Registry database. Problems in the Registry usually lead to problems in Windows. Therefore, it is important to create a backup of Registry settings when the computer is functioning normally. Creating a backup before installing new programs or adding new hardware can help you restore your computer if problems arise.

Instructions

1. Click the "Start" button. Type "regedit" in the search box, then press the "Enter" key. Wait for the Registry Editor window to open.

2. Click and highlight "Computer" on the left side of the Registry Editor window. Click "File" and then "Export" on the menu bar.

3. Navigate to the drive or folder on your PC where you want to save the backup registry file. Double-click the file or drive to open it.

4. Enter a descriptive name for the registry backup file. For instance, type "registry_backup_date" or something similar where "date" is the date of the backup. Select the "All" option under the "Export Range" label, then click the "Save" button. Wait while Windows exports the registry settings to the backup file in the folder you selected.

Tips & Warnings

• To ensure the registry backup remains intact in the event of a hard drive crash or other hardware failure, save the backup file to an external hard drive or USB flash drive.

References

• Microsoft Windows: What is the Registry?
• Microsoft Windows: What is Registry Editor?
• Microsoft Windows: Back Up the Registry
• Ramesh's Site: How to Backup the Registry in Windows 7, Windows Vista and Windows XP?; Ramesh Srinivasan; Mar. 2010