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System Registry File is Missing or Corrupt: How to Fix it

Try a Startup Repair and see if it resolves the issue

4 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

The registry is a database that stores a lot of important information needed to keep Windows up and running. When the registry gets corrupted, Windows will not function properly.

A corrupted registry can cause many issues, includingblue screens of death, problems in installing or running programs, slow performance, and even computer freezing.

What causes a corrupted registry?

What causes a corrupted registry?

TheWindows failed to load because the system registry file is missing or corrupterror message is common in all versions of Windows. It happens because of:

What can I do if the system registry file is missing or corrupt?

What can I do if the system registry file is missing or corrupt?

1. Run the CHKDSK command

2. Run DISM and SFC commands

3. Repair MBR

4. Run Startup Repair

Windows 7 users facing the system file is missing or corrupt issue can revert toWindows Last Known Good Configurationsetting and see if this gets rid of the issue.

If none of the above work, you might have toperform a clean Windows installand see if this gets rid of the problem. To prevent such issues in the future, the best way to ensure that your registry stays in good health is to only use programs that are intended to modify the registry.

They will make backups automatically before making any changes so that if something goes wrong, your original copy will be safe and you can revert to it easily. You should alsoclean your registryoften to keep your system efficient.

In addition, always keep your antivirus program up-to-date or opt forantiviruses with offline updates. Should you encounter acorrupt registry in Windows 10, we have a comprehensive article to that effect.

Do let us know which solution fixed this issue for you in the comment section below.

More about the topics:Windows 11,windows registry

Claire Moraa

Windows Software Expert

Claire has a knack for solving problems and improving the quality of life for those around her. She’s driven by rationality, curiosity, and simplicity, and always eager to learn more about Microsoft’s products. With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11, errors, and software.

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Claire Moraa

Windows Software Expert

With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11 errors.