When a computer isn't stable, it can quickly become a real pain to use. It's slower, more likely to crash, and after about your third or fourth blue screen of death, you'll be hoping for some way to fix the problem–but frustratingly, you can't fix the problem without knowing what's causing it.

One of the common issues that leads to computer instability is the prevalence of registry errors. Here's a look at how problems with a computer's registry can make it less stable and slower.

Understanding the Registry

The Windows registry isn't too difficult to understand, but of course, it's hard to know why it's important if you don't know what it does. Basically, the registry of a Windows computer provides information for the operating system on every program installed. It gives general information about how to load programs, information on what DLL files work with which programs, and more. Windows uses the registry to provide quick and intuitive access to the programs on your computer, ideally without slowdown or crashes. Ideally. Unfortunately, you're reading this article about registry errors, so we know that that isn't always the case.

Registry Errors

The problems start to crop up when the computer's data is corrupted, the computer is shut down improperly, or programs are installed or uninstalled improperly. When one of these things happen, a bad entry is created in the Windows registry. This is a problem, because the bad registry will lead the operating system to a dead end. When an operating system can't open the file that it wants to open, or can't access and use the information in the Windows registry, then that's a registry error, and it leads to things like crashes, the BSOD (blue screen of death), or just general computer slowdown.

Computer users can avoid stability issues caused by registry errors by running registry cleaners. Lots of companies sell them, and the quality of such programs vary, but generally speaking a registry cleaner fixes registry errors by tying up the loose ends, leading to a faster, more stable computer. Registry cleaners only need to be run occasionally, but there's no harm in running them more often. If a computer registry is extremely full of errors, and the cleaner doesn't work, then it's time to reinstall the operating system or look to other possible problems with your computer (such as a failing hard drive).

Do you have any questions about registry errors on a Windows computer? Post in our comments section below.

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When my computer fails me, I'm not the type of person who will spend any money getting it fixed. Why? Because I like my money and I'm intelligent enough to fix most problems myself. I've been taught how to use the computer since I was in first grade. Over the years I have used many different models and running systems. I wouldn't call myself a computer whiz by any means but when it comes down to figuring out glitches and errors, I have to say I like the challenge. Although frustrating at times it can be exhilarating when you finally figure out what the problem is. Besides, why should I bring my computer to some geek in a 200 square foot store front, who will tell me they can fix it but it will take a week? For what I would be charged I could practically buy myself a new computer.

Fixing computer glitches is not for the inexperienced, easily discouraged, or amateur. Sometimes fixing errors can take several attempts, several hours, or several days. If you're lucky any problems will be easily solved within minutes, but often this is not the case. If you're feeling able and up to the challenge you can fix your computer too. In fact you'll probably be surprised by how simple many of the processes are.

The latest problem I experienced occurred with the Windows ® Installer Service. Somehow the service had become disabled or corrupted and I could no longer install software on my computer. I also believe it had something to do with Microsoft ® Word not being able to open or run. For weeks I used Wordpad to get my work done, but the quality of the program is nothing compared to what Word can do.

For hours, I skimmed through web pages searching for information and downloading updates for my computer. I had originally run into the problem with the Windows ® Installer Service when I was trying to install a wireless internet adapter. The installation of the software was interrupted with a pop up reading “During installation process another error occurred: Windows (R) Installer found. This is an older version of the Windows (R) Installer. Click OK to continue.”

So, I click OK to exit the box and then I get “Error 1607: Unable to install InstallShield scripting runtime.” By now, I've installed all the proper updates for Windows and Microsoft figuring it should take care of the problem. Wrong again! After retrying installation of the software and watching it fail once again I knew the problem was a bit deeper than I'd originally imagined.

So, how do you fix this kind of problem? First you want to find the Installer Folder in your computers files. On most home systems, the installer folder is hidden and you may have to work some magic before you can view or edit the contents. To find the installer folder:

1. Click Start > Run > and type explorer. Click ok or hit enter.

2. On the toolbar, select Tools > Folder Options.

3. Click the View or Advanced tab and select show hidden files and folders.

4. Select Apply at the bottom of the box and then click OK.

Now that the Installer Folder is visible you need to open it so you can view the contents. Follow these steps:

1. Click Start, select My Computer, and type C:\Windows\Installer in the address bar.

2. Right click on the installer folder and select properties.

3. Click the Security tab and make sure all users, the system, and Administrators have full control. If any box is checked deny uncheck it by clicking allow.

4. Click OK and exit.

Now you have assigned permission for access to the installer files which should solve the problem. Try reinstalling the software or program to see if the solution worked. If it didn't work you will know right away because you will run into the same errors. If installation fails you are most likely running a corrupted version of the Windows ® Installer Service. You will need to uninstall and reinstall the newest version of the Installer available at http://www.microsoft.com.

I thought my computer was running on regular Windows ® XP but when I ran into some issues I actually found out I was using Windows NT/4.0 with XP version 2002 installed on the machine. At first, I tried downloading the Windows ® Installer for XP but it wouldn't install or run, not even manually. I happened by chance to figure out it wasn't the right version. After several tries with the XP version of the Installer I decided to download the NT version. It worked like a charm!

Supposedly, Windows ® XP comes preinstalled with the correct Installer but XP does have glitches that haven't been dealt with. Usually it is just a few settings and controls that need to be tweaked in order to get your system running properly again. If that doesn't solve the problem you may have to reinstall certain programs and tools like the Installer Service.

If you have this same problem, and I'm positive I'm not the only one, try downloading the Windows NT/4.0 version of the Windows ® Installer. Copy and paste this into your address bar to access the download.

Follow download instructions and installation wizard. In case you have to manually begin the installation it is best to save the downloaded installer file to your desktop. Most downloads and installation wizards are on Auto Run Right so you won't have to do anything but click download and follow the instructions on your screen. If you need to manually install the Windows ® Installer, click on the icon of the Installer and select Open. The installer should begin within 5 seconds.

For me, that solved the problem and mysteriously Microsoft ® Word began working again too. In fact, all of the programs that were disabled for weeks are now working properly again. After downloading and installing the new version of the Installer Service your computer should be able to install any software, programs, or devices. If none of these options solves your problem you can search Microsoft.com for more information and specific resolutions.

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Windows is a very capable operating system. But there are times when things go wrong and the computer crashes. When the computer reboots, it loads a low-resolution desktop and it has the words “safe mode” on all four corners of the screen. Ever wondered what this is and what it is used for?

Safe mode is a diagnostic mode used in Windows, Mac OS, and certain electronic devices. An operating system has reduced functionality during safe mode to allow the user to diagnose a problem with a driver, software, or hard disk. During safe mode, minimal drivers are used in order to isolate a program so that it can be easily be evaluated for common problems such as corrupt disks or poorly configured software.

Safe mode loads as few executable modules as possible and runs a minimal amount of devices, usually just enough for the computer to carry out basic functions. Safe mode can be described as a 'miniature' operating system. Safe mode typically allows the user to run diagnostic programs and utilities in order to troubleshoot a program. Once the user has corrected the problem, the computer can be rebooted and started in normal mode.

In Windows, during safe mode, the computer does not boot the system configuration files or any of the autoexec.bat files. Most drivers are also not loaded (Drivers are software that the computer uses to communicate with hardware, such as a printer or scanner). Instead of the normal graphics driver, safe mode utilizes only the standard VGA graphics. That is why the screen has only about 16 colors and the resolution is reduced. Safe mode boots with system.cb file instead of the standard system.ini file.

Safe mode starts automatically if Windows did not successfully boot on a previous attempt. You can also initiate safe mode yourself by hitting the F5, F8, NUM Lock, or DEL key on your keyboard, depending on what type of BIOS you have. If you computer boots in safe mode you should figure out what went wrong and try to fix it. Check any newly added hardware or program or game that you have recently installed. After you delete the new software, you can now reboot the computer. If it reboots successfully, there is a problem with the new hardware or software you have just installed.

Safe mode is not as intimidating as it seems, and it is actually designed you fix problems with your computer.

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