Windows Registry
The Windows Registry is a hierarchical database that stores low-level settings for the Microsoft Windows operating system and for applications that opt to use it. It contains information, settings, options, and other values for programs and hardware installed on all versions of Microsoft Windows operating systems. The registry replaces most of the text-based .ini files that were used in Windows 3.x and MS-DOS configuration files, such as AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS.
Developers should learn the Windows Registry when building or maintaining Windows applications, especially those requiring system-level configuration, user preferences, or COM component registration. It is essential for tasks like creating installer packages, managing application settings persistently, debugging system issues, or developing software that integrates deeply with the Windows OS, such as drivers or system utilities.