What are RegCure and Registry Mechanic?
RegCure and Registry Mechanic are both registry cleaning utilities that go into the Windows registry in search of invalid entries. These invalid entries range from empty registry keys (as you’ve noticed) to entries that point to non-existent drivers and paths and so much more. The Windows registry contains information about EVERYTHING on your computer. Unfortunately, as time goes by and computer crashes, viruses, and software installations take their toll, the registry becomes bogged down with obsolete information.
For example, if you have tried to install a new program but the installation failed midway through, the installation will likely have placed instructions in the registry. Had the installation gone as planned, then Windows would be able to follow those instructions. However, the installation failed, leaving behind instructions that Windows can’t make sense out of. Now, when Windows loads, it tries to run these instructions only to come to a screeching halt when it can’t follow through. The result: slow performance and possible computer errors.
While the above example is minor, imagine hundreds of incomplete instructions. Each registry error on its own may be minor but when combined, they add up to a huge drain on your computer’s performance.
How Registry Cleaners Work
Registry cleaners are similar in many ways to anti-virus applications. They use database definitions and compare the local registry entries to the huge database back at the developer’s labs. New entries are added all the time. For example, a database entry might contain the correct registry instructions for a specific program such as Microsoft Office. If the local computer registry key for Microsoft Office doesn’t match that found in the database, then the registry cleaner replaces it with the correct one, thus solving any related computer errors.
Why Do Different Registry Cleaners come up with Different Results?
Just as different antivirus and antispyware applications have different database definitions, so too do registry cleaners. This is why you must update the software often - to get the latest definitions. In addition to using database definitions, they also use different algorithms for detecting possible errors. Since each uses its own proprietary algorithms and definitions, the results vary. ParetoLogic Inc., which is the developer of RegCure, is known for having some of the largest databases in existence powering its products. The larger the database, the more likely matches will be found.
What Does RegCure do with Found Errors - Delete them?
The beauty of using RegCure is that it features a backup and restore function. When RegCure finds registry errors, it fixes them based on the nature of the error itself. For example, a registry key pointing to an obsolete device driver may be removed while a registry pointing to the wrong file path will be corrected. If for some reason the results are undesirable, you can always restore the registry to its earlier state.
Celeste Stewart | November 4th, 2008
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