Empty Values in Registry

[pepezx]

Hi!

I'm wondering if it's safe to delete empty values and keys in registry, like those under the "Uninstall" key in HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Curr entVersion\ (for instance, "IE4Data", "Microsoft NetShow Player 2.0" and others). This keys are totally empty, even there isn't a default value...I think they are disturbing here xD.
And not only these keys, also all the keys in registry that are empty. And yes, I've used regcleaner and regclean after.

[POBrien]

I wouldn't do it. Many windows options write/read to/from the registry in real time. Some of these options depend on existing entries in the registry.

Im sure there are some entries that are not needed. But which ones ?

You could test out if you like. Back up the registry delete the value or subkey. If no go restore the registry.

Warning...

Even if there isn't any adverse reaction to the changes immediately, something may go wrong down the line.

Patrick (http://www.winguides.com/forums/sendprivate.php?Cat=&User=POBrien&Board=&Number=&what=online&page=&view=&sb=&part=&vc=><font)</font color=green> /images/forums/icons/smile.gif
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[CaptainSpeleo]

I agree. Leave those "empty" entries alone, unless you know for a fact that they belong to programs that no longer exist on your computer.

Note: If you mess with the Registry and can no longer boot to Windows, do the following:

Completely shut down and then wait 30 - 60 seconds to power back up.

Tap the F8 key about once a second until the black DOS screen appears.

Select "Command Prompt Only" and then press Enter.

Type in SCANREG /RESTORE and then press Enter.

Select a Registry backup copy with a previous date and then press Enter.

If all goes well, the Registry will restore to the good backup copy and then Windows will load.


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[pepezx]

ok I will left them in the registry :] it was only curiosity

[CaptainSpeleo]

There's nothing wrong with being curious and asking questions. That's how we ALL learn.

Do make note of the SCANREG /RESTORE procedure that I mentioned. It can come in real handy. It has saved my butt more than once.


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