The File Database FAQ

What is the purpose of the File Database?

Have you asked yourself what the programs that load when you reboot your computer do? Ever wondered what the processes listed in the Task Manager actually do? If so, The File Database will answer you question.
The purpose of the File Database is to 1) list files along with a description and present it in a discreet and easy-to-use interface, 2) to allow anyone to add and change contents of the File Database.

What is a file?

The hard drive in your computer stores files and folder. If you write a document in Word and save it to disk, your document will be stored as file. Programs are also stored in files. For example, Microsoft Word is stored as an executable file, called WINWORD.EXE.

What is a startup entry?

Some programs are configured to start automatically when you reboot your computer. One approach to have it started automatically is to add a shortcut in the Startup Folder. The image below illustrates the Startup folder, where there are three startup entries called "Digital Line Detect", "Logitech Desktop" and "Microsoft Office":



Another approach to have a program started automatically when a computer is rebooted is to modify the registry. The following locations in the registry contains startup entries:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnceEx
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Runonce

The image below illustrate five startup entries called "IntelliType", "Logitech Utility", "Mirabilis ICQ", "QuickTime Task" and "RemoteControl". Click the image for a large example:

How do I start the registry editor?

To start the registry editor, click 'Start' and then 'Run'. (The Run dialog will appear.) Type regedit and click OK. (The registry editor will open.)