Windows Registry Console Tool
The reg command provides command-line access to the Windows Registry, allowing you to query, add, delete, export, and import registry keys and values. The Registry is a hierarchical database that stores system and application settings, user preferences, hardware configurations, and security policies.
Think of the Registry as Windows' DNA - it contains all the instructions that tell Windows how to behave. Just like a librarian manages books, the reg command lets you view and organize these settings from the command line. IT professionals use it to automate configuration changes, troubleshoot system issues, audit security settings, and deploy consistent configurations across multiple computers.
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Query security policies, firewall settings, and startup programs to detect threats.
Export critical registry keys before system changes and restore if needed.
Script registry changes to deploy settings across multiple computers.
Fix corrupted settings, remove malware entries, or reset configurations.
reg query HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion View Windows installation paths and system information.
reg query HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run List programs that run at user login (common malware location).
reg add HKCU\Software\Test /v Name /t REG_SZ /d "Value" /f Add a new string value to the registry.
reg delete HKCU\Software\Test /v Name /f Delete a specific registry value.
reg export HKLM\Software C:\backup.reg Export a registry key to a .reg file for backup.
reg import C:\backup.reg Import registry settings from a .reg file.
reg compare HKLM\Software HKCU\Software /v Version Compare registry values between different keys.
reg save HKLM\System C:\system_backup.hiv Save a registry hive to a binary file.
Most reg commands require Administrator privileges to access and modify the Windows Registry, especially for HKLM (Local Machine) keys.
To run commands as Administrator in the simulator:
runas /user:administrator cmd Request administrator privileges
admin123 Enter the password when prompted
reg query HKLM\Software Now you can use reg commands
Real Windows: Right-click Command Prompt and select "Run as administrator" before running reg commands.
ALWAYS Backup First: Before making any changes, use reg export to save the registry key you're about to modify. Incorrect registry changes can make your system unstable or unbootable!
Know What You're Changing: Deleting or modifying the wrong registry entry can break Windows, applications, or hardware drivers. If you're unsure, research the registry path first or consult IT support.
Practice reg commands in the interactive terminal below: