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How to Fix Broken Registry Items in Windows 11

Here's how to use the built-in tools in Windows to get your system back in shape

By Jon Martindale Jon Martindale Writer Jon Martindale has been a feature tech writer for more than 10 years. He's written for publications such as Digital Trends, KitGuru, and ITProPortal. lifewire's editorial guidelines Published on September 13, 2022 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email

In This Article

Expand Jump to a Section Causes of a Broken Registry Item The Fixes Frequently Asked Questions Registry errors in Windows 11 can be some of the most frustrating problems to deal with, as they can accumulate over time and appear to have no obvious cause. Whether it's just from system clutter, malware, or an incomplete shutdown, however, there are ways you can fix broken registry items in Windows 11. Here are some of the best.

What Causes Broken Registry Items in Windows 11

It's not always clear what's behind broken registry items in Windows 11, but it's likely a mixture of a few things. Malware can cause issues with your registry as they attempt to infiltrate and replicate in your system, and problematic Windows updates can occasionally throw a spanner in the works too. It's also possible an incomplete shutdown, say from the being power, could cause some corruption in registry files, leading to further issues down the line. Whatever the cause for the registry problems, though, the solutions are the same.

How to Fix a Broken Registry

There are a few different methods you can use for fixing the registry in Windows 11. Here are the best ones, listed from easiest and most likely to work, to the more complicated and time demanding. Try running the SFC /Scannow command from the Windows 11 Command Prompt. This system file checker will make sure all of your Windows system files and DLL files are working properly, and if not, it'll replace them. Make sure you're running the Command Prompt as an administrator, too, so you'll have access to this important cleanup tool. Running the command prompt as an administrator is referred to as an Elevated Prompt. Try running the DISM.exe deployment image servicing and management tool. It can fix your Windows image if there's a problem with the installation, which should help shore up any problems with your registry. To do so, open the Command Prompt, then type in the following: DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth Then press the Enter key. Once the scan is completed, restart your PC to see if that's fixed the issue. Run the Windows 11 automated disk cleanup tool to remove any unnecessary files that might be causing your registry problems. To do so, use the Windows Key+R "Run" menu to input the following command: cleanmgr.exe Then press enter. Select the drive you want to clean, then select Clean Up System Files from the pop-up window. Run a Malware scan to make sure there aren't any viruses or trojans that are causing your registry errors.
Perform a Windows Startup repair from the advanced boot options menu. You can find out more about this particular tool and other useful Windows tools, in our article on how to fix a computer that won't start up properly. Revert to a previous Windows restore point that was taken before your registry errors appeared. If all else fails, reset Windows 11 to its factory defaults. That should clear out any lingering registry error issues you're facing. FAQ How do I restore my Windows registry? If for any reason you need to completely restore your Windows registry, you can do so by using a previous backup. How do I clean up a broken registry in Windows 10? Press the Windows button + S and search for "disk cleanup." Choose the drive you have Windows installed to, then select Clean Up System Files and select the same drive again. Go over the options as they're presented, then select OK to start. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Fix Corrupted Files in Windows 11 Wise Registry Cleaner v10.8.3 Review (A Free Reg Cleaner) How to Clear Cache in Windows 11 9 Ways to Fix DPC Watchdog Violation in Windows 11 How to Fix It When Copy and Paste Isn't Working in Windows 10/11 How to Fix a Frozen Windows 10 Taskbar 28 Best Free Registry Cleaner Programs (October 2022) How to Fix It When Windows 11 Defender Won't Open How to Fix Windows 11 Ethernet Driver Problems Scan and Fix Your Hard Drive: Windows System Files How to Fix User32.dll Not Found or Missing Errors How to Fix Secur32.dll Not Found or Missing Errors How to Fix Incorrect Windows 11 Audio Icons How to Fix Gdi32.dll Is Missing or Not Found Errors How to Fix the 'There Was a Problem Resetting Your PC' Error How to Fix 'Engine.dll Not Found or Missing' Errors Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies