Copy the registry keys for installed programs.
Copy the registry keys for installed programs.
I previously managed a setup with two HDDs or an SSD and an HDD in a laptop. I transferred all my applications to D:, saved registry data, reinstalled Windows on C:\, and restored the keys. The specific keys that hold all installed program nodes were important to me. Before you ask why I did this, I made a big error by installing Windows 10—it’s frustrating. It feels slow, looks unpleasant, and my games lag like a pregnant cow. It also consumes a lot of disk and RAM space. I own a W7 ISO from Microsoft.com, so I needed to back up my registry since everything is stored on D:. I have a primary 240GB SSD, a secondary 500GB HDD, and a tertiary RAID0 setup with two 160GB drives. Most of my programs are on the 500GB drive, with a few on C:\ such as MPC-HC and WinAmp. Who can help identify which keys to export?
I’m unsure how to proceed, but I feel it’s important to recommend sticking with Windows 10 for security reasons or switching to Linux. Windows 7 will no longer receive updates, leaving many vulnerabilities unaddressed. Windows 10 should maintain its performance level, and there doesn’t seem to be a noticeable difference. Consider evaluating these options instead of downgrading.
Edit: Previously focused on security concerns, now thinking about Windows Vista.
Edited January 11, 2017 by JoostinOnline
Windows 7 EOS will be around in 2020. I’m okay until Windows 11 or whatever name they choose comes out. My performance in DX9 and 10 games is significantly lower than on Windows 7. In Skyrim I’d see a steady 60, but now it’s only 30 to 45. Fallout 4 felt similar.
I misunderstood, I was considering Windows Vista. But I’m not anticipating any future updates because it’s now a service. Could you share a screenshot of Task Manager showing the processes with a maximized window? Windows needs these updates for security reasons.
It’s too late for W10 screenshots with TM. I’m using 7 again. It’s fully updated with a rollup ISO I created, then I installed the latest Windows Update. I can confidently say Windows 7 remains the top choice. I once talked on Redddit about why newer operating systems from companies seem to be falling apart. Some factors are screen management, which makes W8 better than W10. Another reason is the plain UI. Windows Vista and 7 had a sleek, glassy interface with bright buttons and elements. iOS before iOS 6 was similar—shiny buttons and titlebars. Android followed with a similar concept but less flashy. Now, comparing Windows 10, whatever iOS versions exist, and Android N, everything feels the same dull, flat look. It’s boring to glance at. To be honest, my desktop looks just like it did on W10.