Where Is the Windows Registry Backup (RegBack) Folder?
The RegBack folder that once held registry backups, why it is empty now, and how to re enable it.
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Windows keeps live registry hives in System32/config. RegBack beside it once held automatic copies named SYSTEM, SOFTWARE, SAM and friends. Recovery guides still point there.
Since Windows 10 version 1803 the folder ships empty by design. Files appear as 0 KB placeholders to cut disk footprint. Microsoft documents the change under KB 4509719. The empty folder surprises everyone the first time.
Where Windows stores this, by platform
C:\Windows\System32\config\RegBack
Browse here to confirm state. Pre 1803 builds hold real hives. Modern builds show 0 KB files until you enable periodic backup. Copy hives only from Recovery Command Prompt, never while Windows runs.
Frequently asked questions
How do I restore the registry without RegBack?
Use a system restore point instead. Microsoft made that the supported path when it disabled automatic RegBack copies. Manual regedit exports cover single keys.
How do I turn RegBack backups on again?
Set EnablePeriodicBackup to 1 under Session Manager Configuration Manager and restart. Windows then backs up on restart through the RegIdleBackup task. Check the folder after a reboot.
Notice an outdated path? Let us know.