Registry Editor Archives

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Your ‘unsupported’ Windows 10 PC can still run Windows 11 in 2025

Microsoft will cease support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Users considering upgrading to Windows 11 may face obstacles due to hardware requirements, including TPM 2.0 and specific CPU models. Workarounds exist for upgrading incompatible PCs. To check compatibility: - Determine if the PC uses UEFI or Legacy BIOS via System Information (msinfo32.exe). - Ensure BIOS Mode is UEFI. - Check TPM status using the TPM Management tool (tpm.msc). - Verify CPU compatibility; most Intel CPUs from 2009 or later and AMD CPUs from 2013 or later should meet the standards. Option 1: Registry Edit Method (for PCs with TPM 1.2+ and UEFI) 1. Open Registry Editor (regedit.exe) as an administrator. 2. Navigate to HKEYLOCALMACHINESYSTEMSetup; create MoSetup key if absent. 3. Create DWORD (32-bit) Value named AllowUpgradesWithUnsupportedTPMOrCPU, set value to 1, and restart. 4. Download Windows 11 ISO from aka.ms/DownloadWindows11. 5. Mount the ISO file and run Setup.exe. Option 2: Using Rufus (for PCs without TPM or UEFI) 1. Download Rufus version 4.6 or later and Windows 11 ISO. 2. Prepare a USB flash drive (16GB or larger). 3. Launch Rufus, select the USB drive, choose the Windows 11 ISO, and check the box to remove requirements for 4GB+ RAM, Secure Boot, and TPM 2.0. 4. Create the bootable drive and run Setup.exe from the USB drive. These methods are unofficial workarounds. Users may encounter compatibility warnings, and the registry method is preferred for its simplicity. Some very old systems, especially those with AMD processors lacking SSE4.2 support, may still be incompatible.

Winsage

March 17, 2025

How to Change Taskbar Size in Windows 11

The taskbar in Windows 11 can be resized using the Registry Editor, as there is no direct option in the Settings menu. To resize the taskbar, users should follow these steps: 1. Open the Start Menu and search for "Registry Editor." 2. Navigate to ComputerHKEYCURRENTUSERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerAdvanced. 3. Right-click the Advanced folder, select "New," and then "DWORD (32-bit) Value." 4. Rename the new value to "TaskbarSi." 5. Double-click the value and change the value data to: - 0 for a small taskbar - 1 for the default taskbar - 2 for a big taskbar 6. Restart the PC to apply the changes.

Winsage

March 10, 2025

How to Improve Game Data Loading Times in Windows

Most modern games rely on real-time asset loading, making storage choice crucial for optimal gaming. A slow SSD or HDD can lead to long loading times and performance issues. 1. Disabling NTFS Last Access Time can improve loading speeds by reducing disk overhead. This can be done via Command Prompt with the command: fsutil behavior set disablelastaccess 1. 2. Enabling Large System Cache can enhance performance for games with substantial assets, requiring at least 16 GB of RAM and editing the Windows Registry. 3. Disabling antivirus scanning for the game folder can reduce loading times by preventing real-time scans. This can be done through Windows Security settings. 4. Using an exFAT drive can efficiently process large files, which may benefit games with sizable assets. This involves creating a new volume in Disk Management. 5. Disabling Full-Screen Optimizations can reduce input lag and improve performance by changing settings in the game's executable properties. 6. Increasing Shader Cache Size can improve loading times, with Nvidia users advised to set it to 10 GB or Unlimited in the Nvidia Control Panel. 7. Using a third-party cache management program like PrimoCache can enhance loading times by reserving RAM for caching frequently used programs.

Winsage

March 9, 2025

Enable old Classic Notepad in Windows 11 24H2 without AI and modern UI

Users can restore the classic Notepad experience by disabling the .txt execution for notepad.exe in the App execution aliases settings. To launch the legacy version, they can use the Windows Run dialog and type notepad.exe. Microsoft has introduced a ChatGPT-based "Rewrite" feature in Notepad, requiring a Microsoft account and a Microsoft 365 subscription for access, while core functionalities remain available without an account. To enable the classic Notepad in Windows 11, users should check if it is installed, remove the association with the new Notepad, and associate .txt files with the legacy version. They can also create a Start menu shortcut for the classic Notepad. To revert to the new Notepad, users can delete the classic shortcut and adjust settings in the Registry Editor and App execution aliases.

Winsage

March 6, 2025

How to Download the Old Classic Outlook App on Windows 11

Microsoft has started the automatic migration of classic Outlook users to its new web-based Outlook Progressive Web App (PWA), removing the option to revert to the classic version for many users. The classic Outlook app is still available for download via the Microsoft Store, and users can install it by accessing the Microsoft Store link, clicking "View in Store," and then "Install." To block automatic transitions to the new Outlook app, users need to modify a Registry entry by opening "Registry Editor," navigating to the specified path, changing the value of "UseNewOutlook" to 0, and restarting their PC. Additionally, Microsoft has removed WordPad from Windows 11, leading to discontent among some users.

Winsage

March 1, 2025

7 reasons you simply HAVE to use PowerToys Run on your Windows 11 PC

PowerToys Run is a versatile launcher for Windows 11 that enhances user interaction with the operating system. It allows users to perform calculations directly by typing = followed by numbers or equations, execute terminal commands by entering commands like > wsl.exe -d Fedora, and search Windows Settings more efficiently by typing $ followed by a search term. Users can also quickly locate files by using ? followed by the search term, launch web addresses by typing the URL or using //, and navigate the Windows Registry by entering : followed by the desired term. PowerToys Run improves functionality and user experience compared to the traditional Start Menu.

Winsage

February 27, 2025

LCRYX Ransomware Attacks Windows Machines by Blocking Registry Editor and Task Manager

LCRYX ransomware, a VBScript-based threat, re-emerged in February 2025 after first appearing in November 2024. It encrypts files with the .lcryx extension and demands a ransom of 0 in Bitcoin for decryption. The ransomware operates with administrative privileges, disables essential system tools like Task Manager and Command Prompt, and restricts access to the Control Panel. It prevents the execution of diagnostic tools and disables inactivity timeouts. LCRYX ensures persistence by modifying registry settings and remapping keyboard keys. It uses a combination of Caesar cipher and XOR encryption techniques, eliminates backups, and makes recovery nearly impossible. The malware terminates essential processes, overwrites the Master Boot Record, and disables real-time monitoring features of antivirus solutions. After encryption, it generates a ransom note directing victims to a payment website. Some variants display pop-ups revealing the victim’s IP address or launch unrelated applications. Users are advised to implement comprehensive security solutions and maintain regular backups.

Winsage

February 19, 2025

These Windows 11 registry hacks will turn you into a PC pro

The Windows Registry Editor is accessed by pressing Win-R, typing regedit, and confirming with “OK.” The registry files are located in “C:WindowsSystem32config” and user-specific files in “C:Users[username].” The five main branches of the registry are: - HkeyCurrentUser: Configuration settings for the current user. - HkeyLocalMachine: Global settings for all users, requiring administrative rights for changes. - HkeyUsers: Contains user IDs for system profiles. - HkeyClassesRoot: Manages file name extensions and program shortcuts. - HkeyCurrentConfig: Links to keys under HkeyLocalMachineSystemCurrentControlSetHardware ProfilesCurrent. Users can create subkeys and values, which can be of different types. To modify the registry, select a key, use the “New” context menu, and double-click to edit. Creating a backup of the registry is recommended before making changes, which can be done using the Registry Backup Portable tool. To restore the registry, select the most recent backup and click “Restore Now.” Microsoft’s Process Monitor can be used to analyze registry values by filtering for “RegSetValue” and tracking changes. Certain registry values are restricted from modification for security reasons, such as the “widgets” feature in Windows 11. However, methods like batch files and PowerShell scripts can override these protections. Windows transmits diagnostic data to Microsoft, impacting user privacy. Tools like O&O Shutup10 and W10Privacy help manage telemetry settings.

Winsage

February 18, 2025

100+ run commands that can help you work efficiently on Windows

Windows 11 and 10 provide run commands that streamline workflow by allowing quick access to various system tools, applications, settings, and diagnostic features. Administrative Tools: - compmgmt.msc: Opens Computer Management. - devmgmt.msc: Launches Device Manager. - diskmgmt.msc: Opens Disk Management. - services.msc: Manages background services. - eventvwr.msc: Opens Event Viewer. - secpol.msc: Opens Local Security Policy. - regedit: Opens Registry Editor. - taskschd.msc: Opens Task Scheduler. - gpedit.msc: Opens Group Policy Editor (Pro & Enterprise). System Diagnostics and Troubleshooting: - msinfo32: Opens System Information. - dxdiag: Launches DirectX Diagnostic Tool. - verifier: Opens Driver Verifier Manager. - resmon: Opens Resource Monitor. - perfmon: Opens Performance Monitor. - mdsched: Runs Windows Memory Diagnostic. - msdt: Opens Microsoft Support Diagnostic Tool. - dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth: Repairs Windows image. - sfc /scannow: Scans and repairs system files. - chkdsk: Runs Check Disk. - winver: Checks Windows version. - cleanmgr: Opens Disk Cleanup. File and Storage Management: - cleanmgr: Launches Disk Cleanup. - dfrgui: Opens Disk Defragmenter. - chkdsk: Checks and repairs disk errors. - diskpart: Opens Disk Partition utility. - onedrive: Opens OneDrive folder. - shell:AppsFolder: Opens all apps folder. - wab: Opens Windows contacts folder. - explorer: Opens File Explorer. - recent: Opens recent files and folders. - documents: Opens Documents folder. - downloads: Opens Downloads folder. - favorites: Opens Favorites folder. - pictures: Opens Pictures folder. - videos: Opens Videos folder. - %AppData%: Opens App Data folder. - debug: Accesses Debug folder. - backup: Opens backup folder. - %systemdrive%: Opens system drive. Security and Maintenance: - firewall.cpl: Opens Windows Defender Firewall. - wf.msc: Launches Firewall with advanced security. - ms-settings:windowsdefender: Opens Windows Security. - sigverif: Verifies file signatures. - verifier: Checks driver integrity. - msconfig: Opens System Configuration. - sfc /scannow: Runs system file checker. - dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth: Repairs Windows image. Launching Apps: - notepad: Opens Notepad. - calc: Launches Calculator. - snippingtool: Opens Snipping Tool. - mspaint: Opens Microsoft Paint. - winword: Starts Microsoft Word. - excel: Opens Microsoft Excel. - chrome: Launches Google Chrome. - msedge: Opens Microsoft Edge. - control: Opens Control Panel. - explorer: Opens File Explorer. - powerpnt: Opens Microsoft PowerPoint. - firefox: Opens Mozilla Firefox. - wmplayer: Opens Windows Media Player. - msra: Opens Windows Remote Assistance. - outlook: Opens Microsoft Outlook. Navigating Settings: - ms-settings: Opens main Settings app. - ms-settings:network: Opens network & internet settings. - ms-settings:display: Opens display settings. - ms-settings:personalization: Opens personalization settings. - ms-settings:windowsupdate: Opens Windows Update settings. - ms-settings:privacy: Opens Privacy settings. - ms-settings:bluetooth: Opens Bluetooth settings. - ms-settings:devices: Opens Devices settings. - ms-settings:system: Opens System settings. - ms-settings:accounts: Opens Accounts settings. - ms-settings:timeandlanguage: Opens Time & Language settings. - ms-settings:gaming: Opens Gaming settings. - ms-settings:region: Opens Region settings. - ms-settings:optionalfeatures: Opens Optional Features settings. - ms-settings:storage: Opens Storage settings. - ms-settings:notifications: Opens Notifications settings. - ms-settings:taskbar: Opens Taskbar settings. - ms-settings:start: Opens Start Menu settings. - ms-settings:lockscreen: Opens Lock Screen settings. Network and Connectivity: - ncpa.cpl: Opens Network Connections. - ipconfig: Displays IP configuration. - ping: Tests network connectivity. - control netconnections: Opens Network and Sharing Center. - ms-settings:network-wifi: Opens Wi-Fi settings. - ms-settings:datausage: View data usage. - ms-settings:network-vpn: Manage VPN. - ms-settings:network-proxy: Configures proxy settings. Display and Appearance: - desk.cpl: Opens Display Settings. - control color: Customizes window colors. - dpiscaling: Opens display scaling settings. - ms-settings:personalization: Opens Personalization settings. - ms-settings:themes: Changes desktop themes. - ms-settings:display-advanced: Adjusts advanced display settings. Accessibility: - magnify: Opens Magnifier. - narrator: Launches Narrator. - osk: Opens on-screen keyboard. - utilman: Opens Ease of Access Center. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-display: Opens display accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-cursor: Opens cursor accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-mouse: Opens mouse accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-keyboard: Opens keyboard accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-narrator: Opens narrator accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-magnifier: Opens magnifier accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-colorfilter: Opens color filter accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-highcontrast: Opens high contrast accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-closedcaptioning: Opens closed captioning accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-audio: Opens audio accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-eyecontrol: Opens eye control accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-mousepointer: Opens mouse pointer accessibility settings. Power Management: - powercfg.cpl: Opens Power Options. - ms-settings:powersleep: Adjusts power and sleep settings. - powercfg /batteryreport: Generates a battery report. - powercfg /energy: Creates an energy efficiency report. - powercfg /hibernate: Enables or disables hibernation. - powercfg /deviceenablewake: Enables a device to wake the computer. - powercfg /devicedisablewake: Disables a device from waking the computer.

Winsage

February 14, 2025

How to block Windows 11 24H2 if it is already downloading

The wushowhide tool can be used to block the Windows 11 24H2 update by selecting "Hide updates" and choosing the 24H2 version. Users can also prevent the update by stopping update-related services via Command Prompt, deleting files in the Software Distribution folder, and restarting the services. To block the update using the Group Policy Editor, users can set the target version to 23H2. For Home edition users without Group Policy Editor, registry modifications can be made by creating specific string and DWORD values under HKEYLOCALMACHINESoftwarePoliciesMicrosoftWindows. Support for Windows 11 23H2 will retire in November 2025, so users should be prepared to update in the future.