How to Take Full Ownership of Registry Keys in Windows 10 – Guide
The Windows Registry is the system warehouse, where all software and system configuration are stored. Whenever you try to fix an error, you usually see tutorials talk about modifying, adding, or deleting a registry key. However, sometimes you run into a small hurdle when trying to modify, delete, or add a registry key. As such, here it is how to take ownership of the registry in Windows 10 so you can make the changes you want.
Why is the registry preventing you from making changes?
Windows 10 does not want you to inadvertently make changes that could damage your system. Even if you’re an administrator, you don’t have permission (at least by default) to modify or delete certain keys. In most cases, you’re better off not messing with registry keys that you don’t have permission to. If you have reason to believe that something in the registry is causing a problem, you can reset the registry to fix the errors. However, if you are trying to manually configure a system component and you are sure you have the technical knowledge to determine that what you are doing will not harm the system, it is a good idea to get full permission from the registry keys.
Get full ownership of the Windows Registry from Registry Editor
Before making any registry modifications, it’s a good idea to back up your registry. That means if you finish up by deleting the wrong item, you can quickly and easily get things back to normal. When finished, open Registry Editor by pressing Win + R, typing regedit and pressing Enter. Search for the registry key for which you want full permissions. For illustrations, we use the Windows Defender key: Computer HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE SYSTEM CurrentControlSet Services WinDefend Right click on the key and select Permissions. In the Permissions window, select Advanced. This will open Windows Advanced Security Settings. At the top of the window you will see a Change option next to Key Owner. Click Change to change the owner. Enter Administrators in the Enter Object Name field and select and press OK. This will take you back to Advanced Security settings. Double-click Administrators in the Permission Entries list. Select the checkbox next to Full Control under Basic Permissions and press OK to save changes and exit. You are ready at this point. After completing this process, go ahead and modify the key as per your choice and you will be able to do so. However, if you find this a bit complicated, you can also use a third-party tool to make this process simpler.
Taking full ownership of the Windows registry using a third-party tool
A third-party tool like RegOwnit can make this process simpler for you. Download RegOwnit and launch the app. Of course, you should still back up your registry, even if you’re using the app. After starting the application, add the registry address of the key you are trying to take full ownership of. Then select the user accounts to which you want to grant Full Control and select Full Control button in the Permissions section. When finished, press Apply and you’re done. Obviously, the app is a much simpler way to gain full ownership, but first you’ll need to install a third-party tool. If you don’t like installing programs that you don’t use regularly on your PC, the previous method may be the smartest way to do that.
With control comes responsibility
Now you have the power to modify the registry however you like. However, it’s best not to play with the registry unless you’re sure what you’re doing. In some cases, you can get your system into trouble. That’s why it’s always good to create a backup of your registry. In case you run into problems, you can use backup to revert your registry to its previous working state. However, if things don’t work out well, you may need the help of a professional, but you can also fix various Windows Registry errors yourself.
Final note
I hope you like the guide How to Take Full Ownership of Registry Keys in Windows 10. In case if you have any query regards this article you may ask us. Also, please share your love by sharing this article with your friends.
