Tilted Forum Project Discussion Community - Safe mode + Registry files

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Safe mode + Registry files

I hate to ask because i know that the answer is simple, but for the life of me can't find it.

I want to fix someones computer that has a load of crap in it (spyware, popups, blar blar - the usual), but as it is someone elses computer i don't want to fuck up and have reformat. So here are my questions:

How do you run safe mode?
Do i need to back up registry files? and what are they exactly (what do they contain?
If i run spybot, adware, x cleaner, hijack this and microsoft anti spy is that all the points (anymore suggestions) and should these all be run in safe mode?

Thanks

To access safe mode, Start the computer and begin hitting the F8 key. This will give you a menu for bootup. Select Safe Mode with Networking.

Backing up the registry is always a good idea. Go to Start -> Run and type "regedt32". Once the registry is open, go to File and Export. This will export your registry settings at their current state.

The registry in Windows is like a logbook. It keeps track of everything installed on the computer, file registration, etc.

Quote:

From Google:

A Windows 95, 98, and NT database of configuration settings, where information is stored concerning attached hardware, selected system options, memory setup, and available applications. It consists of the System.dat and User.dat files. When application programs are installed or uninstalled, Windows updates the registry automatically. Registry information can be kept on a server so that system policies can be managed centrally. You can access the registry through Control Panel in My Computer or by using the Properties menu option on the File menu. Remember, editing the registry is extremely dangerous, so take care when doing so.

Yes, your adware removal programs will operate better in safe mode, as very few drivers are loaded in the safe mode UE.

I have to be honest, and sorry if I sound like a dick - but - if you're unsure of yourself in fixing the computer, then perhaps the job is best left to professionals...if it was your own computer that's one thing, but if it's someone else's, do you really want the burden of killing their data?

Thanks.

i will try it out on my own computer before letting myself loose on anyone elses.