Windows registry files can be thought of as a large database of info, data & settings for the various pieces of hardware and software on your computer.

The job of the windows registry is to hold the configuration data of the many software programs setup on your PC, as well as the hardware devices that have been attached or installed.

The Windows registry is said to be a pretty efficient method of keeping in check the various software and hardware components in one central location. The registry holds lots of useful settings for how your windows program is actually configured, and as such you do have to be very careful when editing it. It is VERY important to backup your files prior to carrying out any work on the Windows registry AT ALL!!!

So, if the windows registry is so great, why does it need ‘cleaning’?

Although the windows registry is a pretty efficient database, it can become clogged and corrupted with viruses and spyware/adware. Additionally, over time, as you install and perhaps even uninstall software and hardware, the registry can be left with remnants of the uninstalled hardware and software, leaving the system much less efficient than originally.

How do I clean My Windows Registry?

Manually Cleaning Your Registry

Really you have two main options for cleaning your windows registry… Manually removing all the unwanted items, such as viruses and spyware – and bits and pieces of old programs that you have tried to uninstall. – This can be risky, and if you make a mistake, you could mess up your Windows install – So, BACKUP FIRST.

We will not advise you how to manually clean your windows registry, as it is a somewhat involved process that, as we have already stated, is not without risks.

Software Programs to Clean Your Windows Registry

There is a plethora of software programs, from freeware, shareware and commercial products. A simple search on Google will yield many great results, I am sure.

Be sure to seek out independent reviews of any programs you are considering using – look for reviews that do not then link to the products with affiliate links, as these MAY (or MAY NOT) be biased towards the products that earn the reviewers the most money.


Written by: Robert, who runs a website about SEO