To fix broken registry items in Windows 11, use Windows’ own repair tools rather than a “registry cleaner”. Run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and then sfc /scannow in an administrator Terminal to repair system files, use System Restore to roll back a recent change, and use Startup Repair or Reset this PC if Windows won’t start properly. Microsoft doesn’t support registry cleaner programs, and they can cause more problems than they fix.
Quick Answer
Run DISM RestoreHealth, then sfc /scannow, and restart. If a recent change caused the problem, use System Restore. As a last resort, Reset this PC and keep your files.
Step 1: Repair System Files
- Right-click Start and choose Terminal (Admin).
- Run
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. It can take 10 to 30 minutes. - Run
sfc /scannow. - Restart the PC.
Step 2: Undo a Recent Change With System Restore
- Search for Create a restore point and open it.
- Click System Restore and choose a restore point from before the problem.
- Finish the wizard. Your personal files aren’t affected, but recently installed apps may be removed.
Step 3: If Windows Won’t Start
Open the recovery environment (Shift + Restart, or it appears after two failed starts) and choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair or System Restore. As a last resort, choose Reset this PC > Keep my files.
Options Compared
| Tool | Fixes | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| DISM + SFC | Damaged system files | Very low |
| System Restore | Recent driver, app or registry changes | Low |
| Startup Repair | Boot problems | Low |
| Reset this PC | Deep Windows damage | Removes apps; keeps files if chosen |
| Registry cleaners | Nothing Microsoft supports | Can break Windows |
Troubleshooting
- SFC can’t fix some files: Run DISM again, restart, then SFC once more.
- No restore points: Turn on protection for C: in System Protection so future changes can be undone.
- Before editing the registry yourself: Export the key in Registry Editor (File > Export) so you can restore it.
- More help: See fixing Windows 11, restoring Windows 11 and Safe Mode.
Related: Enable long paths in Windows 11.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do broken registry items slow down my PC?
Leftover entries rarely affect speed. Startup apps and storage matter much more.
Should I use a registry cleaner?
No. Microsoft doesn’t support them, and a bad change can stop Windows from starting.
How do I back up the whole registry?
Create a restore point; it includes the registry.
Summary
- Run DISM RestoreHealth, then sfc /scannow.
- Use System Restore for recent changes.
- Use Startup Repair if Windows won’t boot.
- Avoid registry cleaners.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.