Solved Is it safe to delete registry entries under "HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Applications\"?

What the subject says.

For context, I am trying to remove remnants of an old program I had uninstalled. I am aware of what the registry is and that mistakes made there could brick my PC/OS.

Back up registry, then test delete.

For added insurance, create a systems image (Macrium Reflect and/or AOMEI, both freeware) to restore, just in case. Don't forget to create the recovery boot usb as well.

If you recall the name of the program you uninstalled, then search the registry for that name. Use CTRL + F to Find and F3 to Find Next.

Assuming you are using the correct name, you should be able to find most of the remnants for that program.

Only delete keys where you see the name of the program in the data etc. and don't delete any keys you are unsure about.

I also recommend that in future, you use an uninstaller program such as Revo Uninstaller, they will remove all traces of a program safely.

Also, as suggested do make a back up or a System Restore point at the very least.

trumpy81 said:

If you recall the name of the program you uninstalled, then search the registry for that name. Use CTRL + F to Find and F3 to Find Next.

Assuming you are using the correct name, you should be able to find most of the remnants for that program.

Only delete keys where you see the name of the program in the data etc. and don't delete any keys you are unsure about.

I also recommend that in future, you use an uninstaller program such as Revo Uninstaller, they will remove all traces of a program safely.

Click to expand...

I do know the name and found some entries for it.


So it's safe to delete this key?

Yes, where you see the name of the program you wish to delete, then it is usually safe to delete that key.

You should not delete the root/parent of the key unless it is named NeeView (in this case). Only delete keys and data that show that name.

trumpy81 said:

Yes, where you see the name of the program you wish to delete, then it is usually safe to delete that key.

You should not delete the root/parent of the key unless it is named NeeView (in this case). Only delete keys and data that show that name.

Click to expand...

Did it and it seems that nothing bad has come out of it, so thanks.

I'm glad I was able to help