REGINI - CMD

Overview

REGINI is a command-line utility in Windows that allows users to modify Registry keys and values from a script or command prompt. This command provides the ability to set permissions on registry keys, amend existing registry values, or create new ones based on data from script files. REGINI is particularly useful for system administrators and developers needing to automate registry modifications through scripts in deployment, configuration, or maintenance tasks.

Syntax

The basic syntax of the REGINI command is as follows:

REGINI [-m \\machinename] scriptfile

Parameters

  • -m \machinename: Specifies a remote machine where the registry changes should be applied. If not specified, the command is executed on the local machine.
  • scriptfile: Refers to a text file containing the commands and data to modify the registry. The script file uses a specific syntax to denote registry keys, values, and permissions.

Note: Paths that include spaces must be enclosed in quotes.

Options/Flags

REGINI does not have extensive options or flags, as its functionality is principally controlled through the script file. The main option is:

  • -m: Allows the registry of a remote machine to be targeted instead of the local machine. This is critical in network environments where changes need to be propagated to other computers.

Examples

Below are examples demonstrating basic to advanced uses of the REGINI command.

Example 1: Set Permissions on a Registry Key

To change the permissions of a registry key, create a script file (example.ini) as follows:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\TestKey [1 5 7]

Here, [1 5 7] specifies permissions. Then run:

REGINI example.ini

Example 2: Modify Values in the Registry

Create a script file (modify.ini) to modify or set a registry value:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\TestKey\TestValue = 1

Run the script:

REGINI modify.ini

Common Issues

  • Permissions Issues: Users may encounter errors related to insufficient permissions. Ensure that the account running REGINI has adequate permissions to modify the registry keys targeted by the script.
  • Incorrect Script Syntax: Issues can arise from errors in the script file syntax. Ensure all paths and formatting strictly adhere to the REGINI guidelines.

Integration

REGINI can be integrated into batch files and other scripts to automate broader setup or teardown procedures. An example of combining REGINI with a batch file might include checking whether a registry key value exists and then choosing to modify it based on the outcome:

IF REG QUERY HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\TestKey\TestValue THEN
    REGINI modify.ini
ELSE
    ECHO Value not found.

This snippet shows a conditional operation based on the registry’s state, leading to modulation by REGINI.

  • REG: Similar to REGINI, but provides a more interactive approach to modifying or querying the registry and is more commonly used for manual operations.
  • REG QUERY: Used for finding and retrieving registry values.
  • REG ADD: Adds new registry keys or values.

For further information, consult Microsoft’s official documentation or specific detailed resources related to Windows command line tools and scripting.