How Is Windows Registry Structured?

Windows registry is a configuration database that stores settings and options in Microsoft Windows operating system. The database houses information and setting for all the hardware, software, users and preferences. The updates will be reflected and recorded in the registry when a user makes changes to Control Panel settings, File Association or download software.

How Is Registry Structured?

The registry is characterized by its hierarchal structure. The registry may appear to be quite complicated for many non-techy people, but in fact, it is very similar to the directory structure of your own hard drive.

Hives

The registry is divided into several logical sections called “hives”. Hives are named according to their Windows Application Programming Interfaces (API) definitions, which are abbreviated to a three- or four-letter name starting with HKXX.

Keys and Values

Hives contain Keys as well as Values. Keys are very similar to the concept of file folders with syntax very much like Windows path names denoting levels of hierarchy by backslashes. Each key contains subkeys and each subkey contains further subkeys.

Registry Values contains the actual data and information stored in the registry. There are three types of values, namely, String, Binary and DWORD. The use of each type of value is determined by the context.

Six Root Keys

The six root keys , each of them contains specific information stored in the Registry detailed as follows:

HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT (HKCR): This key contains all of users’ file association mapping to enable the drag-and-drop functionality, Windows shortcuts, OLE information and the core functions of Windows user interface.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER (HKCU): This key connects to the section of HKEY_USERS for the current user logged on the PC and consists of information such as Logon Names, Start Menu Settings and Desktop Settings.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE (HKLM): This key houses computer information such as the type of hardware, software and preferences on a particular PC. The information is used for all users who may log on to this PC.
HKEY_USERS (HKU): This key contains individual preferences for each user of this computer. Every user is assigned with a SID sub-key under the main key.
HKEY_CURRENT_CONFIG (HKCC): This key contains information collected at runtime. The information is dynamic and generated at each boot time instead of being permanent and fixed.
HKEY_DYN_DATA (HKDD): This key is only applicable to Windows 95, 98 and ME. It stores information about hardware devices such as Plug and Play and network performance statistics. Similar to the above HKCC, the data is dynamic and configured at startup and is stored in memory instead of on the hard drive.

Having a high-performing computer in large part depends on the general health of your Windows registry. Similar to how we maintain a well-run vehicle to have oil changed and other check-ups from time to time, we also need to be diligent about cleaning the Windows registry to ensure an optimally-operated PC.

With the right tool such as SpeedyPC, the task is as easy as a breeze.

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