[videobruce]

Can the file 'ntuser.dat' be saved and replace the same file in a new install of 2k so I don't have to redo all the Windows settings? I assume that is the correct file.

What is the difference between the file in the root directory and the one under my user name in Documents and Settings?

[Jerry Atrik]

not advisable but u can take some of the settings (registry keys) and make a merge file so u can add your settings
for that to work u must have the same user name
thats what i do

2nd question
hkey_local_machine
hkey_current _user

[videobruce]

I under the same user name. I assume I would do that first.
What registry files and how do you do a merge?

[Jerry Atrik]

this is the way i do it but im sure there is an easier way which im sure our other fine forum contributers will point out.

in regedit open the key u want to keep and right click on it
export it to a file.
i always keep my explorer root and explorer advanced settings
the file will be a .reg
right click and EDIT... dont doubleclick or merge
then remove the settings u dont want on the new system

then after u install the new system doubleclick the saved file and it will transfer all the settings.

please be careful and practice if u arent very familier with these things because i am not aware of any way to undo a registry merge other than to restore a backup... so make backups

[Kaiser]

I personally set up one account as I want it, then copy that profile (System>User Profiles) to the "Default User" folder under Documents & Settings - making sure to back it up first "just in case" of course

Works for me....

[videobruce]

Quote:

I personally set up one account as I want it, then copy that profile (System>User Profiles) to the "Default User" folder under Documents & Settings - making sure to back it up first "just in case" of course

Works for me....

That would be ok to create another user on the same computer without re-installing the O/S, but how could that work on a new install on another computer or even the same computer from scratch.

I'm talking about re-installing 2k on the same box without spending a hour or so doing all the tweaking on Window size, color, font, position, and the other dozens and dozens of settings that make a customized Windows install.

[adamvjackson]

Videobruce, this is slightly OT, but here's a recommendation I have to add to your custom .reg settings:

-Start cmd.reg-

Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00

[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Command Processor]
"CompletionChar"=dword:00000009

-End cmd.reg-

This will enable autocomplete at the command prompt, by pressing 'TAB'. Give it a shot, it's really useful for long pathnames.

[videobruce]

adamvjackson: two things;
what does OT mean?
and I really don't understand your post regarding my problem since it doesn't have anything to do with long pathnames!

[adamvjackson]

OT means off-topic..

[videobruce]

Yep..off topic, but thanks anyway!