Registry errors are caused by a wide range of problems such as power failures, malware, or system file corruption. If you don’t repair these errors, they can become quite serious so it’s best to take action as soon as you encounter them. How do you recognize a registry error? There’s not a perfect method but some indicators will strongly suggest the presence of registry issues. If the error includes terms like “CONFIG” or “hive error”, then it’s most likely a registry error.
The good news is that fixing all types of registry errors will typically involve the same process. The steps are also very similar regardless of the Windows version used. Here are some of the best solutions to try for fixing corrupt registries in your system:
1. Run Windows Error Checking Tool
This is an effective solution to fix all kinds of system errors, including corrupt registries. Start by navigating to “This PC” or “Computer” (if you’re using an older version of Windows) in File Explorer. The main local drive (usually identified by the letter C) should be right-clicked to open the list of options. Pick the bottom one called “Properties”.
The error checking function is found in the Tools tab in the following pop-up window. Select Check > Scan drive. Wait for the scanning process to finish. The system will prompt you to restart the PC if any errors need to be fixed. In case this tool doesn’t find any errors, consider a different option to fix a corrupt registry.
2. Try the sfc /scannow command
The System File Checker is a handy utility that can be used through Command Prompt to scan and fix corrupt system files. It can solve your corrupt registries so it’s one of the best options to try before others. It’s very easy to use because you just need to open Command Prompt (type cmd in the Windows search bar) and enter the following command: sfc /scannow
3. Perform System Restore
In many cases, it’s possible to restore your system to a previous point when the registry wasn’t corrupted. This solution may not work for severe issues but it’s worth considering to fix registry errors. Windows should automatically create restore points. If you have one, it can be used for this process.
Type in the Windows search bar “restore point”. You will find a setting called “Create a Restore Point”. It will open up a small window where you can spot a System Restore button. The tool guides you through the task of restoring your system which involves restarting. Make sure you select a restore point before the errors started to appear.
4. Update the BIOS
Various problems can be caused by an outdated BIOS. Although it should stay updated automatically, the BIOS may sometimes require manual updating. This is particularly the case for troubleshooting hardware-related problems. Updating the BIOS is a welcomed stability improvement for the entire system but it can be difficult to do. Make sure your files are backed up before deciding to go through with the update.
Because updating the BIOS can be different depending on the manufacturer of the computer, it’s usually required to visit the site of the manufacturer and search for a BIOS update utility. It will provide you with all the necessary instructions including when to restart and what steps should be followed to finish the update correctly.
5. Reset the PC
A reset of the PC can be a bit extreme for some cases but if you’re out of options and the registry errors still appear, consider this solution. This recovery feature is usually used to reinstall Windows completely. Depending on your choice during the process, you can either delete all your personal files or keep them.
Using the “Reset this PC” feature can be activated through the Advanced Startup Options menu. This is brought up when navigating to Settings > Update & Security >Recovery (left side) > Advanced startup section. Click on the “Restart now” button.
Windows will restart and bring up the Advanced Startup Options. Select Troubleshoot > Reset this PC to start the resetting. Choose whether you want to perform a reinstall to fresh factory settings or if you want to keep your existing files. The process takes some time. You will be asked to sign in to your administrator account for confirmation and then the system will reinstall Windows.