Registry

Two Types of Control

Although, in general, the Registry controls all 32-bit applications and drivers, the type of control it exercises is based on users and computers, not on applications or drivers. Every Registry entry controls a user function or a computer function. User functions would include the desktop appearance and home directory, for example. Computer functions are related to installed hardware and software, items that are common to all users.

Some application functions affect users, and others affect the computer and are not specifically set for an individual. Similarly, drivers may be user-specific, but, most of the time, they are for general use by the computer. All of the settings discussed in the rest of the book are separated by user and computer.

Some examples of user-type functions controlled by the Registry are

• Control Panel functions


• Desktop appearance and icons


• Network preferences


• Explorer functionality and features

Some of those functions are the same regardless of user; others are user-specific.

Computer-related control items are based on the computer name, without respect to the logged-in user. An example of this type of control would be installing an application. The availability and access to the application is constant, regardless of the user; however, icons to launch the application are dependent on the user logging in to the network. Network protocol availability and priority is based on the computer, but current connections are based on user information.

Here are some examples of computer-based control items in the Registry:

• Access control


• Login validation


• File and print sharing


• Network card settings and protocols


• System performance and virtual memory settings

Without the Registry, Windows 95 and Windows NT would not be possible. They are too complex to be controlled by the older .INI files, and their expansion capabilities allow almost unlimited installation and use of applications. The Registry is, however, much more complex than the .INI files, and understanding how it works, what it does, and how to work with it is critical for effective system administration.

The Registry controls all 32-bit applications and their functions on the system, plus the interaction between multiple applications, such as copying and pasting. It also controls all the hardware and drivers. Though most of the settings are made during installation and through the Control Panel, understanding the Registry is  fundamental to reliable and capable management of Windows NT and Windows 95 systems.