Application Registry Edits

Change IE Title Bar Text

This tweak allows you to customize Internet Explorer by adding your own window title.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main
Modify/Create the Value Name [Window Title] according to the Value Data listed below.
Data Type: REG_SZ [String Value] // Value Name: Window Title
Value Data: [Enter The Text Desired In Title Bar]
Exit Registry and Reboot

Customize Windows Media Player Title Bar

Allows you to change the title bar to read Windows Media Player provided by <your text>, so if I had
entered text of [The Elder Geek], it would read: Windows Media Player provided by The Elder Geek

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft
Create the Key [WindowsMediaPlayer].
Modify/Create the Value Name [TitleBar] according to the Value Data listed below.
Data Type: REG_SZ [String Value] // Value Name: TitleBar
Value Data: [Enter the text to be displayed in the title bar.]
Note: Whatever text you enter as the value data will be preceded by:
Windows Media Player provided by, so if I had entered text of [The Elder Geek], it would read:
Windows Media Player provided by The Elder Geek
Exit Registry and Reboot
 
Invoke a Program Once then Delete from the Registry
This tweak allows you to set up a program that will be run once and then deleted so that it does not run
again unless the entry is re-entered manually. The Runonce key does remain in the registry for reuse.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Create the Key: Runonce
(The [Runonce] Key you create will remain in the registry for use with a new string value)
Create Data Type: REG_SZ [String Value]
Value Name: [Enter the Name of Program Executable]
Value Data: [Enter the Path to the Program Executable]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 
Launch Programs at Login Without Using the Startup Folder
This tweak allows a program to be launched when the user logs onto the computer. It
can be set to run minimized and there is no trace of the executable in the Startup folder
on the Start Menu nor in the Documents and Settings folder accessible via Windows
Explorer.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

 Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: REG_SZ [String Value] // Value Name: [Enter the Name of Program Executable]
Value Data: [Enter the Path to the Program Executable]
Exit Registry and Reboot

Enable/Disable Media Player Automatic Update Message

This tweak disables the prompt to update Media Player that appears on a regular basis.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\MediaPlayer\PlayerUpgrade
Modify/Create the Value Name [AskMeAgain] according to the Value Data listed below.
Data Type: REG_SZ [String Value] // Value Name: AskMeAgain
Value Data: [No = Disabled / Yes = Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 
Minimize Outlook 2002 to the System Tray
If you frequently access Outlook during the day it’s more convenient to have it
minimized to the system tray rather than invoking it each time you need to
send/receive e-mail. To minimize Outlook 2002 to the system tray:

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office\10.0\Outlook\Preferences
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: DWORD // Value Name: MinToTray
Setting for Value Data: [0 = Disabled / 1 = Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot
Prevent Messenger from Running In Outlook Express
This tweak is but one of the many ways to stop Windows Messenger from running.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Outlook Express
Modify/Create the Value Name according to the Value Data listed below.
Data Type: REG_DWORD [Dword Value] // Value Name: Hide Messenger
Value Data: [2 = Messenger Will Not Load]
Exit Registry and Reboot

Run Internet Explorer Full Screen

This tweak forces Internet Explorer to open in full screen mode. That said, I've left this
tweak here because a number of people have asked for it so they could remember how
to uninstall it. While it does work initially, if you change the view while browsing, the
second part of the tweak resets to "No"  so that opening IE subsequently will launch it
in normal view. Rather than using this tweak, I suggest using the F11 key which
accomplishes the identical results.

Note: This is a two part modification. Complete both parts as listed below.
 [Start] [Run] [Regedit]
Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Console
Modify/Create the Value Name [FullScreen] according to the Value Data listed below.
Data Type: REG_DWORD [Dword Value] // Value Name: FullScreen
Value Data: [0 = Disabled / 1 = Enabled]

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\InternetExplorer\Main
Modify/Create the Value Name [FullScreen] according to the Value Data listed below.
Data Type: REG_SZ [String Value] // Value Name: FullScreen
Value Data: [Modify Value to (Yes)]
Exit Registry and Reboot

Password Is Not Saved in Outlook or Outlook Express

Problem:
You are repeatedly prompted to enter your password in Outlook Express or Outlook in spite of how many
times you have checked the [Save Password] box. There have been a number of different solutions
offered on the internet, some very similar in nature. This is a compilation of those different methods that
to the best of my knowledge should work for the majority of situations. The three step process is detailed
below:
Solution:

Back up the Registry

 Click Start, click Run, type regedit in the Open box, and then click OK.
 Navigate to and select: HKEY_CURRENT_USER \ Software \ Microsoft \ Protected Storage
System Provider
 Right click Protected Storage System Provider and select Export.
 In the File name box, type a unique name for the key.
 In the Save In box, click a location for the file to be saved. Click Save.
Close Registry Editor.
Remove User Account Information
 Click Start, click Run, type regedit in the Open box, and then click OK.
 Navigate to and select: HKEY_CURRENT_USER \ Software \ Microsoft \ Protected Storage
System Provider
 Right click Protected Storage System Provider and select Permissions
 Click the user name for the user that is currently logged on and ensure that Read and Full
Control permissions are both set to Allow.
 Click Advanced button, select the Permissions tab.
 Ensure that the currently logged on user is highlighted, that Full Control is listed in the
Permissions column, and that This Key and Subkeys is listed in the Apply To column.
 Ensure that Replace Permission Entries on all Child Objects with Entries Shown Here
that Apply to Child Objects has a checkmark in the box.
 Click Apply then click Yes in the Security dialogue box shown below.
  Click OK, then click OK again to return to Registry Editor.
 Expand the Protected Storage System Provider key by double clicking or using the plus (+)
sign.
 Right click the user sub-key folder directly below the Protected Storage System Provider
key.
Example: User sub-key looks similar to: S-1-5-21-124525095-708259637-1543119021-16701
 Click Delete and then click Yes in the Confirm Key Delete dialog box that appears.
NOTE: Each identity may have a sub-key under the Protected Storage System Provider key. Delete all of
the user sub-key folders under the Protected Storage System Provider key using the same method.
 Close Registry Editor and reboot the computer
Re-Enter Password
Depending on whether you are using Outlook or Outlook Express the exact method will vary. In all
cases, accessing the Tools menu and selecting the choice related to Accounts will point you in the right
direction. Select the user account and the option to change or modify its properties. There will be a box
to be checked to save the password once it has been re-entered. It will be necessary to perform the
password re-entry for each separate e-mail account. Reboot after each account change.

Specify Default IE Download Directory

This tweak changes the default directory where downloads initiated in Internet Explorer
are stored on the system.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer
Modify/Create the Value Name [Download Directory] according to the Value Data listed below.
Data Type: REG_SZ [String Value] // Value Name: Download Directory
Value Data: [Enter Path to Directory to be Assigned as Defualt for Downloads]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 

Use Internet Explorer Classic Search

Clicking the Search button in Internet Explorer 6.0 launches the default Search Assistant. Many users find
the Search Assistant in IE annoying. To do away with the Assistant and return to the Classic Search:

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: String Value // Value Name: Use Search Asst
Note that there are spaces in the String Value, not underscores.
Set the value of Use Search Asst to no.
Exit the registry and reboot.
Desktop Registry Edits
Eliminate Fade Effect in XP Menus
This tweak removes the fade in effect on XP menus that many users find annoying as well as slowing
response time.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop
Modify/Create the Value Name [UserPreferencesMask] according to the Value Data listed below.
Data Type: REG_BINARY [Binary Value] // Value Name: UserPreferencesMask
Value Data: [In Binary Mode - Change 3e to 28. Do Not Alter Other Values]
Exit Registry and Reboot
Desktop Context Menu
By default, when a user right clicks on the desktop in Windows XP a context menu is displayed.
Implementing the Enable/Disable Desktop Context Menu edit will remove the ability to display a context
menu by right clicking the desktop, items on the desktop, and items in Windows Explorer. It does not
disable context menus in Internet Explorer. This registry edit can be set either on a user or machine
basis.

To Enable/Disable for Current User

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]
Registry Key: 
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: DWORD // Value Name: NoViewContextMenu
Setting for Value Data: [0 = Disabled / 1 = Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot
To Enable/Disable for Local Machine
[Start] [Run] [Regedit]
Registry Key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\policies\Explorer
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: DWORD // Value Name: NoViewContextMenu
Setting for Value Data: [0 = Disabled / 1 = Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot

Desktop Patterns from Previous Windows Versions

If you've been around previous Windows versions you more than likely remember some of the hideous
desktop patterns that were available. They're still here in XP waiting to be resurrected. Hey, they can't be
any worse than the default XP scheme, can they? On second thought, maybe they can.
The desktop patterns from previous versions are stored in the registry under
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Patterns. The names and values are shown in the screen capture
below:
 [Start] [Run] [Regedit]
Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: REG_SZ [String Value]  // Value Name: Pattern
Setting for Value Data: [Use the data value from the chart above or Key HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control
Panel\Patterns]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 

Disable Save Desktop Configuration on Exit

Default behavior for XP is to save the desktop configuration on exiting the operating system. To prevent
saving the desktop configuration, implement the following registry edit.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: REG_DWORD (Dword Value) // Value Name: NoSaveSettings
Setting for Value Data: [0 = Disabled / 1 = Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot
Exclude a Program from the Start Menu
A feature of the new XP Start Menu is a list of the most frequently used programs on the left side of the
menu. Personally, I find this section rather useless, since a program I'd want to be instantly available I'd
place either in Quick Launch or pin it to the list of programs above this frequently used programs section.
However, if you find the feature useful but would like to exclude a specific program from appearing here
permanently:

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FileAssociation\
In the right pane, double click AddRemoveApps
The [Value Data] box contains a list of the default XP entries
 To add a program to the list, type a semicolon followed by the name of the program executable
Example: To add Notepad, the entry would be ;notepad.exe
Add as many programs as you like and click [OK]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 
If you prefer not to edit the registry, you can right click on any entry in the section and select [Remove
From This List] and the program will be removed. However, this is not a permanent solution and the
program will return eventually as it is accessed by users.
Another option is to edit the Taskbar and Start Menu Properties where you can set the number of entries
allowed to populate this section including a setting of zero to eliminate any programs from being
displayed.
A Faster Start Menu
I see no reason for there to be any delay when I click on the Start Menu. Effects are pretty, but I
wouldn’t click on it if I didn’t have business inside, so lets get it open and get moving. The default speed
can be adjusted with a quick registry entry.
The default value is 400. Set it to 0 and the delay is gone, but it will be nearly impossible to move the
mouse fast enough not to activate [All Programs] if you mouse over it in route to your final selection. It's
easy to train yourself to move the pointer to the right after clicking Start to avoid activating All Programs.
Pick a number that suits your style and make the change, then test it until you find a good compromise
between speed and usability.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: String Value // Value Name: MenuShowDelay
Setting for Value Data: [Default = 400 / Adjust to Preference]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 

Force Use of Classic Start Menu

This tweak loads the Classic Start Menu and makes it impossible to change back to the Windows XP
version.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Modify/Create the Value Name according to the Value Data listed below.
Data Type: REG_DWORD [Dword Value] // Value Name: NoSimpleStartMenu
Value Data: [0 = Default / 1 = Force Classic Start Menu]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 

Hide/Show Internet Explorer Desktop Icon

By default, Windows XP does not show the Internet Explorer icon on the Windows desktop. Using
the registry edit below allows you to control whether or not the Internet Explorer icon is displayed.
 [Start] [Run] [Regedit]
Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: DWORD // Value Name: NoInternetIcon
Setting for Value Data: [0 = Disabled / 1 = Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot

To avoid the inherent danger of editing the registry, the same results may be  obtained by using the
procedure detailed below.

Right click on any open area of the Desktop

Click [Properties], select the [Desktop] tab, then click [Customize Desktop] button
Select the [General] tab
In the [Desktop Icons] section place or remove the checkmark next to Internet Explorer

I recently received a note from "Dr. Nick" about the edits listed above. I wanted to add his
letter to the page and thank him personally for some excellent detective work. Thanks Nick -- 
Jim / TEG
TEG,
I was just looking for information about showing the IE icon on the desktop in XP and came
across your page.
Unfortunately, the information you have is incorrect regarding the NoInternetIcon registry
value.  You can force XP to *hide* the icon using that key (it's part of Group Policy) but you
cannot force it to *show* it. Some registry monitoring showed me that you can easily
show/hide special desktop icons via the registry, updated immediately with a refresh of the
Desktop.
In
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\HideDesk
topIcons\NewStartPanel] there are several GUIDs, one for each of the icons.  A value of 0x0
will show the icon, 0x1 will hide it.
Network Places:         {208D2C60-3AEA-1069-A2D7-08002B30309D}
My Computer:            {20D04FE0-3AEA-1069-A2D8-08002B30309D}
My Documents:           {450D8FBA-AD25-11D0-98A8-0800361B1103}
Internet Explorer:      {871C5380-42A0-1069-A2EA-08002B30309D}
Recycle Bin:            {645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E}
Those values will be the same on all XP machines.
Hide/Show My Documents Folder on Desktop
By default, Windows XP does not show the My Documents folder on the Windows desktop. Using the
registry edit below allows you to control whether or not My Documents is displayed.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\CLSID\
 {450D8FBA-AD25-11D0-98A8-0800361B1103}\ShellFolder
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: DWORD // Value Name: Attributes
Setting for Value Data: [Default = 0xf0400174 / Hidden = 0xf0500174]
Exit Registry and Reboot

To avoid the inherent danger of editing the registry, the same results may be  obtained by using the
procedure detailed below.

Right click on any open area of the Desktop

Click [Properties], select the [Desktop] tab, then click [Customize Desktop] button
Select the [General] tab
In the [Desktop Icons] section place or remove the checkmark next to My Documents

Increase Menu Display Speed

I see no reason for there to be any delay when I click on the Start Menu. Effects are
pretty, but I wouldn’t click on it if I didn’t have business inside, so lets get it open and
get moving. The default speed can be adjusted with a quick registry entry.
The default value is 400. Set it to 0 and the delay is gone, but it will be nearly
impossible to move the mouse fast enough not to activate [All Programs] if you mouse
over it in route to your final selection. It's easy to train yourself to move the pointer to
the right after clicking Start to avoid activating All Programs. Pick a number that suits
your style and make the change, then test it until you find a good compromise between
speed and usability.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: String Value // Value Name: MenuShowDelay
Setting for Value Data: [Default = 400 / Adjust to Preference]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 
Enable/Disable Notification Area Balloon Tips
This tweak disables the annoying balloon tips that appear adjacent to the Notification
area.
The [Notification Area] is on the right side of the Taskbar, adjacent to the Clock display.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: REG_DWORD [Dword Value] // Value Name: EnableBalloonTips
Setting for Value Data: [0 = Balloon Tips Disabled / 1 = Balloon Tips Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 

Rename My Computer on Desktop

 This tweak allows you to have a personalized name instead of the generic My
Computer. Useless, but neat.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID\ {20D04FE0-3AEA-1069-A2D8-08002B30309D}
Data Type: REG_EXPAND_SZ [Expandable String Value] // Value Name: LocalizedString
Rename the value [LocalizedString] to [LocalizedString.old]
Modify/Create the Value Name [LocalizedString] according to the Value Data listed below.
Create a REG_EXPAND_SZ [Expandable String Value] and name it [LocalizedString]
Value Data for [LocalizedString]: [%USERNAME% on %COMPUTERNAME%]
Exit Registry and Reboot
“My Computer” icon will now reflect the current user and computer name.
 

Enable/Disable Desktop Cleanup Wizard

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Explorer\Desktop\CleanupWiz

Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: REG_DWORD [Dword Value] // Value Name: NoRun
Setting for Value Data: [0 = enabled, 1= disable wizard]
Exit Registry and Reboot

File System Registry Edits

Connected Web Files and Folders
Connecting web files and folders allows a primary .htm or .html file to be moved in conjunction with files
associated with the primary document. Once the primary document has been defined, create a sub-folder
using the same name as the primary document but assign it a .files extension. Whenever the primary file
is moved, the sub-folder will also move and remain as a sub-folder of the primary.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: DWORD Value // Value Name: NoFileFolderConnection
Setting for Value Data: [0 = Enabled (Default) / 1 = Disabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot

Delete Shared Documents Folder

An addition to XP is the Shared Documents folder. Folders or files you wish to share with others on the
network can be placed here using drag and drop. Moving or copying a file or folder to Shared Documents
makes it available to everyone who uses your computer. To delete the Shared Documents folder:

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\
CurrentVersion\Explorer\MyComputer\NameSpace\DelegateFolders
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Locate key {59031a47-3f72-44a7-89c5-5595fe6b30ee}
 Right click the key and select delete.
Exit Registry and Reboot
Enable/Disable Recycle Bin
For those confidant enough that you will never need a deleted file or folder, this tweak will disable the
Recycle Bin and permanently delete items with no chance of recovery.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\BitBucket
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: DWORD // Value Name: NukeOnDelete
Setting for Value Data: [0 = Use Recycle Bin / 1 = Permanently Delete]
Exit Registry and Reboot

To avoid the inherent danger of editing the registry, the same results may be  obtained by using the
procedure detailed below.

Right click the Recycle Bin icon on the Desktop and click [Properties]
Check the box for [Do Not Move Files to the Recycle Bin]
Click [Apply] and [OK]

 
A Note from Bob M
Sept 23, 2005
The recycle bin is set to 10% of HD size by default.  Way too big! Right click on recycle bin,
select properties, and change the value to something more reasonable, like 400-500MB, which
should be 3% or 2%.  One can regain 2-3 GB of drive space this way.
 Faster Browsing in Windows Explorer on Network Computers
By default, a Windows XP machine connecting to a Windows 95/98/Me computer will
search for scheduled tasks or enabled printers on the remote computer. Two sub-keys
control this behavior. Deleting them will speed up browsing on the remote computer.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\
RemoteComputer\NameSpace

Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Disable Scheduled Task Checking
Value Name: {D6277990-4C6A-11CF-8D87-00AA0060F5BF}
Delete the sub-key in the left pane of Registry Editor
Disable Printer Checking
Value Name: {2227A280-3AEA-1069-A2DE-08002B30309D}
Delete the sub-key in the left pane of Registry Editor
Exit Registry and Reboot
 
Enable/Disable Low Disk Space Message
By default, on a Windows XP system the following messages are displayed. This tweak
will prevent the messages being displayed.
When free disk space reaches 200 megabytes (MB), you receive the following message
for 10 seconds, once per session:
You are running out of disk space on [drive]. To free space on this drive by deleting
old or unnecessary files, click here.
When free disk space reaches 80 MB, you receive the following message for 30
seconds, every four hours, twice per session:
You are running very low on disk space on [drive]. To free space on this drive by
deleting old or unnecessary files, click here.
When free disk reaches 50 MB, you receive the following message for 30 seconds,
every five minutes, until free space is above 50 MB:
You are running very low on disk space on [drive]. To free space on this drive by
deleting old or unnecessary files, click here.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Data Type: REG_DWORD [Dword Value] // Value Name: NoLowDiskSpaceChecks
Modify/Create the Value Name [NoLowDiskSpaceChecks] according to the Value Data listed above.
Value Data: [0 = NoLowDiskSpaceChecks Disabled / 1 = NoLowDiskSpaceChecks Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 
Delete "Files Stored On This Computer" Category
When My Computer is opened from the desktop the default view opened is known as Category View. Not
many XP users find this view to be of much use, but especially useless is the Files Stored On This
Computer part of Category view. This tweak eliminates it from the default Category view.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Explorer\MyComputer\NameSpace\DelegateFolders
In the left pane, delete the sub-key {59031a47-3f72-44a7-89c5-5595fe6b30ee}
Exit Registry and Reboot
 

Hardware Registry Edits

CD AutoRun
Depending on the type of CD's one uses, AutoRun may be more of an annoyance than a help. This allows
it to be universally disabled rather than on an individual file type basis.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Cdrom
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: REG_DWORD [Dword Value] // Value Name: AutoRun
Setting for Value Data: [0 = AutoRun Disabled / 1 = AutoRun Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 
Enable/Disable CD Burning
If you choose to use a different CD burning program than the one supplied with
Windows XP this edit will disable the default burner. In most cases this isn't necessary
even if you choose an alternative burning program, but there are a few badly behaved
burning programs out there that insist on this modification.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Modify/Create the Value Name [NoCDBurning] according to the Value Data listed below.
Data Type: REG_DWORD [Dword Value] // Value Name: NoCDBurning
Value Data: [0 - Enable Burning / 1 - Disable Burning]
Exit Registry and Reboot
Enable/Disable CD Burning for the Local Machine
[Start] [Run] [Regedit]
Registry Key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\policies\Explorer
Modify/Create the Value Name [NoCDBurning] according to the Value Data listed below.
Data Type: REG_DWORD [Dword Value] // Value Name: NoCDBurning
Value Data: [0 - Enable Burning / 1 - Disable Burning]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 
Enable/Disable DVD Player
This tweak allows you to disable an installed DVD player in Windows XP

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\MediaPlayer\Player\Settings
Modify/Create the Value Name [EnableDVDUI] according to the Value Data listed below.
Data Type: REG_SZ [String Value] // Value Name: EnableDVDUI
Value Data: [No = Disabled / Yes = Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 
Restore Missing CD or DVD Drive
Reports have filtered in that CD or DVD drives will suddenly cease to exist in XP
systems. Most often this has been reported in conjunction with program installations
and Windows upgrades, but it has also happened for no apparent reason. This tweak
will restore the missing drives after a reboot.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class
Key Name: {4D36E965-E325-11CE-BFC1-08002BE10318}
Value Data: [Delete All Value Data from UpperFilters and LowerFilters]
Note: Do not delete the Key or the Multi-String Values. Delete only the data values.
Exit Registry and Reboot

Logon Registry Edits

Create Legal Notice Logon Dialog Box
In situations where you need users to review a legal notice before logging on, this
tweak will create the caption for the notice and the notice itself which you type directly
into the string values.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
Modify/Create the Value Name [LegalNoticeCaption] according to the Value Data listed below.
Data Type: REG_SZ [String Value] // Value Name: LegalNoticeCaption
Value Data for LegalNoticeCaption: [Type the Caption for the Dialog Box]
Modify/Create the Value Name [LegalNoticeText] according to the Value Data listed below.
Data Type: REG_SZ [String Value] // Value Name: LegalNoticeText
Value Data for LegalNoticeText: [Type the Data for the Legal Notice]
Exit Registry and Reboot
Customize Logon and Security Dialog Title

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\ CurrentVersion\Winlogon
Modify/Create the Value Name [Welcome] according to the Value Data listed above.
Data Type: REG_SZ [String Value] // Value Name: Welcome
Value Data: [0 = Disabled / 1 = Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot
Customize Logon Box Message
This is the message displayed on the Classic Logon box, not the XP ‘Welcome’ logon screen.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\ CurrentVersion\Winlogon
Modify/Create the Value Name [LogonPrompt] according to the Value Data listed below.
Data Type: REG_SZ [String Value] // Value Name: LogonPrompt
Value Data: [Enter the text of the message]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 
Enable/Disable Logon Screen Saver
Note: This applies only to the default Login [login.scr] screensaver and is not the same
as screensaver selections made in the [Display Properties] property sheet accessed by
right clicking on the desktop and selecting [Properties] from the context menu.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control Panel\Desktop
Data Type: REG_SZ [String Value] // Value Name: ScreenSaveActive
Modify/Create the Value Name [ScreenSaveActive] according to the Value Data listed below.
Value Data: [0 = ScreenSaveActive Disabled / 1 = ScreenSaveActive Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 
Add Administrator Account to Log In Screen
When Windows XP is first installed it requires you to enter at least one name of a user
who will access the computer. Once you create this name the default Administrator
account vanishes. To access it, press Ctrl-Alt-Delete twice at the Welcome screen to
retrieve the standard Windows 2000 logon dialog. Log on as Administrator from this
point. To log the Administrator off, click [Start] [Log Off] and [Log Off] when the [Log
Off Windows] selection box appears. The Log On screen with the available users will be
displayed.
To Make the Administrator Account Always Visible on the Login Screen

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCALMACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows
NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon\SpecialAccounts\UserList
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: DWORD// Value Name: Administrator
Setting for Value Data: [0 = Disabled / 1 = Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 

Welcome Screen Logon versus Classic Logon

This tweak specifies whether the Welcome screen or the Classic logon will be used to
access Windows XP.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\
CurrentVersion\Winlogon
Data Type: REG_DWORD [Dword Value] / Value Name: LogonType
Value Data: [0 - Classic Mode / 1 - Welcome Screen]
Modify/Create the Value Name [LogonType] according to the Value Data listed above.
Exit Registry and Reboot
 

Registration Information Registry Edits

Change the Registered Organization/Owner of Windows XP
This tweak allows modification of the registered owner and organization of the Windows XP software.
Note: This tweak has nothing to do with Windows Product Activation (WPA) and will not allow you to
register illegal XP software.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows
NT\CurrentVersion
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: String Value // Value Name: RegisteredOrganization
Data Type: String Value // Value Name: RegisteredOwner
Setting for Value Data: [Modify the Values to Reflect Current Information]
Exit Registry and Reboot

Activate Clear Type

Microsoft states, “With Windows XP, ClearType delivers improved font display resolution over traditional
anti-aliasing. It improves readability on color LCD monitors with a digital interface, such as those in
laptops and high-quality flat desktop displays. Readability on CRT screens can also be somewhat
improved.”
 Clear Type can be enabled on an individual user basis or as the default for all users.

Enable Clear Type for the Current User

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]
Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: String Value // Value Name: FontSmoothing
Setting for Value Data: [Set Value to 2]

Data Type: Dword // Value Name: FontSmoothingType

Setting for Value Data: [Change Value to 2]
Exit Registry and Reboot
Enable Clear Type for All Users
[Start] [Run] [Regedit]
Registry Key: HKEY_USERS/.DEFAULT/Control Panel/Desktop
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.

Data Type: String Value // Value Name: FontSmoothing

Setting for Value Data: [Set Value to 2]

Data Type: Dword // Value Name: FontSmoothingType

Setting for Value Data: [Change Value to 2]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 

To avoid the inherent danger of editing the registry, the same results may be  obtained by using the
procedure detailed below.

Enable Clear Type for the Current User

[ To enable this setting for All Users it is necessary to use the registry edit listed above ]
Right click on a blank area of the Desktop and choose [Properties]
Click on the Appearance Tab; Click Effects
Check the box: Use the following method to smooth edges of screen fonts
In the drop down box select: Clear Type
 

Alter When Pending Password Expiration Warning Appears

Passwords can be set so they expire and force users to create a new password in the interest of security.
This setting dictates how many days before the password expires a warning will be given to the user.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: REG_DWORD [Dword Value] // Value Name: PasswordExpiryWarning
Setting for Value Data: [Enter Number of Days Before Expiration to Begin Warnings]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 
Auto Reboot On System Crash
By default, when the Windows XP operating system crashes an automatic reboot of the system occurs.
While this behavior can be convenient, the downside is the error message accompanying the crash is not
visible. Often times this information can be a great help in troubleshooting the source of the crash. This
behavior can be modified in two ways; via the registry or using the System Properties property sheet.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\CrashControl
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: Dword // Value Name: AutoReboot
Setting for Value Data: [0 = AutoReboot Disabled / 1 = AutoReboot Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 

To avoid the inherent danger of editing the registry, the same results may be  obtained by using the
procedure detailed below.

Open System Properties via Start > Control Panel > Performance and Maintenance > System
[ System Properties may also be opened using the WinKey+Pause key combination ]
Select the Advanced tab and then click Settings in the Startup and Recovery section
In System Failure section, clear the checkbox next to Automatically Restart
Click OK and OK to exit
 

It should be noted that when you disable the Automatic Restart option you may be presented with the
screen below.

This is most likely to occur if the page file has been relocated to a different drive in order to improve
virtual memory performance.
Enable/Disable Automatic Boot Disk Optimization [Defrag]
Locates and consolidates fragmented boot files, data files, and folders on local volumes.
For a complete description of Defrag, type Defrag in Help and Support Center

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Dfrg\BootOptimizeFunction
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: REG_SZ [String Value] // Value Name: Enable
Setting for Value Data: [N = Disabled / Y = Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 
Change the Location of Special Folders
Tweak allows changing the location of special folders on the system. Any of the folders listed in the
registry key may be moved.
 [Start] [Run] [Regedit]
Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\UserShell
Folders
Modify/Create the Value Name [Various Folder Names] according to the Value Data listed below.
Data Type: REG_SZ [String Value] // Value Name: Consult RegEdit for Folder Names
Value Data: [Move the folder to the new desired location using explorer, then edit the matching folder in
RegEdit to reflect the new folder location]
Exit Registry and Reboot
Enable/Disable Task Manager
This tweak disables user access to Task manager. It must be applied on a user by user basis.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: DWORD Value // Value Name: DisableTaskMgr
Setting for Value Data: [0 = Enabled (Default) / 1 = Disabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot

Modify Shutdown Time For Services To Close

Often times when XP is shutting down a dialog appears saying the system is waiting for
a service to close. This tweak will reduce (or increase) the amount of time that expires
before this warning appears. In some cases it may be desirable to allow the service
more time, but most often a shorter delay is desirable. The lower the number entered
the quicker the task will end.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control
Modify/Create the Value Name [WaitToKillServiceTimeout] according to the Value Data listed
below.
Data Type: REG_SZ [String Value] // Value Name: WaitToKillServiceTimeout
Value Data: [Default = 20,000 (expressed in milliseconds) Modify to preference.]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 

Altering Prefetch Parameters

Prefetch is one of the commonly overlooked components that can have a significant impact on system
boot time. This tweak allows selection of which components will make use of the prefetch parameters. To
see which files are gathered using each of the settings, clear the prefetch cache located at
C:\Windows\Prefetch and then enable one of the settings. Clear the cache and repeat for each setting.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session
Manager\Memory Management\PrefetchParameters
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: DWORD Value // Value Name: EnablePrefetcher
Setting for Value Data: [0 = Disabled / 1 = Application Launch Prefetch / 2 = Boot Prefetch /
3 = Prefetch All]
Exit Registry and Reboot
  
Prevent Programs from Loading at Startup
Provides an alternative method to MSCONFIG for disabling programs from loading at
startup. Two methods are provided; one for disabling entries for the current user and
another for all users of the local machine.

Disable Programs for the Current User

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]
Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Right click the program you don't want to load and click Delete.
Exit Registry and Reboot
Disable Programs for the Local Machine
[Start] [Run] [Regedit]
Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Right click the program you don't want to load and click Delete.
Exit Registry and Reboot
 
Set System Restore Space Allotment
Much criticism has been dealt to System Restore and the amount of space it uses by default on the
system drives, but there are circumstances where you might want to allocate more than the default 12MB
it can consume on each drive. This registry edit allows you to choose the amount of space allocated.
[Start] [Run] [Regedit]
Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows
NT\CurrentVersion\SystemRestore
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: DWORD // Value Name: DiskPercent
Setting for Value Data: [Set the percentage of drive to be used, i.e 18 would equal eighteen
percent]
Exit Registry and Reboot
To avoid the inherent danger of editing the registry, the same results may be  obtained by using the
procedure detailed below.

If you want to reduce the amount of drive space allocated to System Restore, I suggest you use the
following method.
Right click My Computer > Properties > System Restore tab.
Select the individual drive and use the [Settings] button to allocate the space.

Suppress Error Messages During Boot Process

This tweak suppresses any balloon error messages that pop up alerting you that a piece of hardware isn't
working.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Windows
Modify/Create the Value Name according to the Value Data listed below.
Data Type: REG_DWORD [Dword Value] // Value Name: NoPopupsOnBoot
 Value Data: [0 = Show Popups / 1 = Hide Popups]
Exit Registry and Reboot

Enable/Disable System Properties Access from My Computer

This tweak removes access to System Properties via My Computer as well as via Control Panel.

Enable/Disable System Properties Access from My Computer - Current User

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]
Registry Key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: REG_DWORD [Dword Value] // Value Name: NoPropertiesMyComputer
Value Data: [0 - Display Properties / 1 - Hide Properties]
Exit Registry and Reboot
Enable/Disable System Properties Access from My Computer - Local Machine
[Start] [Run] [Regedit]
Registry Key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: REG_DWORD [Dword Value] // Value Name: NoPropertiesMyComputer
Value Data: [0 - Display Properties / 1 - Hide Properties]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 

Turn Off System Beeps

This tweak prevents the system beeps from being audible without altering any other
audio settings.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Sound
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: REG_SZ [String Value] // Value Name: Beeps
Setting for Value Data: [0 = Disabled / 1 = Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot

Enable/Disable Error Reporting in Windows XP

In an effort to make Windows XP a better and more stable operating system, Microsoft
has included Error Reporting in the latest release. Whenever an application has to close
because of an error, it asks that a report be sent to Microsoft for study and evaluation.
Sending the report is optional, but users can benefit from the error log that is
generated if they wish to study it or print a hard copy. If you find error reporting
objectionable and want it disabled:

Open Control Panel.

Click on Performance and Maintenance.
Click on System.
Then click on the Advanced tab.
 Click on the error-reporting button on the bottom of the windows.
Select Disable error reporting.
Click [OK] [OK]
or
[Start] [Run] [Regedit]
Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\PCHealth\ErrorReporting
Modify/Create the Value Name according to the Value Data listed below.
Data Type: REG_DWORD [Dword Value] // Value Name: DoReport
Value Data: [0 = Don’t Send Reports / 1 = Do Send Reports]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 
Adjust System Restore Default Timing Parameters
By default, System Restore creates a restore point of the system every 24 hours and
saves restore points for 90 days. The GUI doesn't allow modifying the default settings
but it can be done via this registry tweak.
It's important to remember that the settings in this tweak are measured in seconds.
Just to save you the math time, there are 86,400 seconds in one day, 3,600 seconds in
one hour, and 31,536,000 seconds in one year.

Change Restore Point Creation Frequency

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]
Registry Key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsNT\CurrentVersion\SystemRestore
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: REG_DWORD [Dword Value]  // Value Name: RPGlobalInterval
Setting for Value Data: [0 = Disabled / 1 = Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot
Change Restore Point Retention Lifespan
[Start] [Run] [Regedit]
Registry Key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsNT\CurrentVersion\SystemRestore
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: REG_DWORD [Dword Value] // Value Name: RPLifeInterval
Setting for Value Data: [0 = Disabled / 1 = Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot

User Registry Edits

Automatic Logon to Windows XP
Convenience is one of the major reasons this tweak has become so popular. However,
with convenience there is a price, and in this case that price is a lack of security. Due to
the way it is implemented, anyone with local or remote access to the computer can
easily navigate to the registry key and find out your password since it's stored as a plain
text string. You've been warned.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows
 NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: String Value // Value Name: DefaultUserName
Setting for Value Data: [Enter the account name to be automatically logged on]
Data Type: String Value // Value Name: DefaultPassword
Setting for Value Data: [Enter the account password]
Data Type: String Value // Value Name: AutoAdminLogon
Setting for Value Data: [0 = Disabled / 1 = Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 

To avoid the inherent danger of editing the registry, the same results may be  obtained
by using the procedure detailed below.
Rather than editing the registry and exposing the account password to such easy scrutiny, I'd suggest
downloading a Microsoft utility called TweakUI and use it to enable automatic logon.
TweakUI is part of the Power Toys collection and can be downloaded here.
Another secure method to accomplish the same result is at
Bypass The Windows XP Log On Screen
 
Create A Hidden User Account
This tweak allows an account that is normally displayed on the Welcome screen to be
hidden from view. To log on using the account it's necessary to use the Log On To
Windows dialog box similar to the one in Windows 2000.

[Start] [Run] [Regedit]

Registry Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsNT\CurrentVersion\
Winlogon\SpecialAccounts\UserList
Modify/Create the Value Data Type(s) and Value Name(s) as detailed below.
Data Type: REG_DWORD [Dword Value] // Value Name: Type Name of Account to be Hidden
Setting for Value Data: [0 = Account is Hidden / 1 = Enabled]
Exit Registry and Reboot
 

While the account is hidden on the Welcome screen, note that the account profile will
be visible in C:\Documents and Settings or wherever user profiles are stored as well as
in Local Users and Groups.

Retrieving XP CD-Key from the Registry

Do you not know your computer operating systems’ serial number and you need it? If you want
to re-install windows, or do any major updating it may require you to enter you serial number to
confirm you indeed have a license for the software. This tutorial will guide you through using a
website and information from your registry to get your CD-Key. This way, you wont have to
download any software, as most of these utilities have viruses associated with them. First we
need to get some information from the registry.

Click on Start and select “Run”

Type in “regedit” into the run box that comes up. This will launch the registry editor.
This is the registry editor with all trees minimized. This tool will allow us to make many changes
within all of our applications and the operating system. You can severely damage your computer
in here, so please be careful not to mess with anything unless told to do so. To continue with our
tutorial we need to locate the following key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion

Expand HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE
Expand SOFTWARE

Scroll down and expand Microsoft

Scroll down and expand WindowsNT

Highlight CurrentVersion. This will show you a whole bunch of keys in the right pane of the
editor. I have blacked out the ones that will give out valuable information.
Look for the key in the right pane called “DigitalProductID” and double click on it.
The above box has the key in it but it is embedded and only part of this is the key. I whited out a
lot of it to ensure that my key could not be compromised. Here is a guide to show you which
numbers to write down (you should end up with 30 characters)

Start from the top and write all of the digits down. You will need to type them back in (sorry –
cannot copy paste from here in the registry) Once you have your 30 digits we are now ready to
get our product key. We are going to go to a website to convert this key.

Active Desktop Recovery Error

To solve this problem you need to reset a registry setting for the desktop.

Solution

 Click Start, click Run, type regedit, and then click OK.
 Locate and then click the following registry subkey:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER > Software > Microsoft > Internet Explorer > Desktop >
SafeModeComponents
 In the right pane, right-click DeskHtmlVersion, and then click Modify.

 In the Value data box, type 0, and then click OK. Exit Registry Editor.

 Right click anywhere on the desktop and select “Refresh”