Background

• The Windows registry is a set of hidden files on a Windows PC that contain details of software and operating system settings relating to your installed programs. Over time, your registry can become bloated with information regarding programs that have been uninstalled and corrupted due to other problems. Registry-checking programs can help to maintain your registry and keep your computer running well.
  
  

Options

• The Microsoft registry checker (scanreg.exe) is included with Windows and runs automatically at start-up. For users comfortable with the Windows Command Prompt interface, it can also be run manually.
  
  A range of third-party products claim to check and "clean" the registry and often incorporate additional PC maintenance features.
  
  

Warning

• Incorrect changes to the registry can cause a range of system problems, from difficulty running programs to a complete inability to boot up your PC. If you decide to use a third-party registry checker, research thoroughly to ensure it is a well-reviewed program from a reputable company.