This tool should ONLY be used as a last resort when dealing with corrupted registry files. Before using this tool, ensure you have:
- Attempted to use Windows' built-in recovery tools
- Checked for registry backups in
C:\Windows\System32\config\RegBack
- Verified that no system restore points or third-party backups are available
- Confirmed that neither regedit nor DISM can interact with the registry file
MDC RegFix is designed to repair corrupted Windows Registry file headers. It specifically addresses situations where:
- Registry files cannot be loaded in regedit
- DISM commands fail to interact with the registry file
- The file's header structure is damaged but the majority of the data remains intact
Use this tool ONLY when:
- You have a registry file that won't open in regedit
- Standard Windows recovery tools have failed
- No backups are available
- The registry file's header is corrupted, but you believe the data is still intact
ALWAYS create a backup of the corrupted registry file before attempting any repairs:
copy C:\Windows\System32\config\SYSTEM SYSTEM.bak
Take note of:
- Current system state
- Error messages you're receiving
- Recovery methods you've already tried
If possible, perform repairs while Windows is booted in Safe Mode or while working with offline registry files.
IMPORTANT: This tool:
- Only repairs registry file headers
- Does NOT fix corrupted registry data
- Does NOT guarantee the registry will be fully functional after repair
- Should be considered a "first aid" tool that may allow Windows' built-in tools to work again
Even after successful header repair:
- The registry file may still contain corrupted data
- You may need to use Windows' built-in tools (regedit, DISM) to perform additional repairs
- Some registry keys or values may be permanently lost
- Create a backup of the corrupted registry file
- Launch MDC RegFix
- Select the corrupted registry file
- Review the analysis results
- If issues are found, use the repair option
- After repair, try using Windows' built-in tools again
If the repair is successful:
- Try opening the file in regedit
- Use DISM's registry health commands
- Check system functionality
- Consider creating a new backup of any successfully repaired files
The tool checks and repairs:
- Registry file signature
- Header checksum
- Sequence numbers
- Size parameters
- Basic file structure
This is a specialized tool for specific registry corruption scenarios. If you're unsure about using it:
- Consult with IT professionals
- Create full system backups
- Document all steps taken
- Have a recovery plan in place
This tool is provided as-is, without warranty. Always ensure you have backups and understand the risks before attempting any registry repairs. Incorrect use of this tool could result in system instability or failure.