How to use other registry keys with Visual C++ 2.0 and later versions

MORE INFORMATION

The default Registry key used by Visual C++ version 2.0 is "Visual C++ 2.0" and the default Registry key used by Visual C++ version 4.0 is "Developer." Visual C++ version 5.0 uses the "DevStudio\5.0" key, while Visual C++ version 6.0 uses the "DevStudio\6.0" key.

All keys are found in the HKEY_CURRENT_USER on Local Machine window under HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft.

In the properties for the Visual C++ icon, you can add the /I switch to the Command Line field. The /I switch must be followed immediately by the extension to the registry entry that will be used.

For example, the following switch starts Visual C++ using the "Visual C++ 2.0_Test" key:

   /I_Test
				

The first time Visual C++ is started with this switch it will create the "Visual C++ 2.0_Test" key using the default settings. At this point, you will have two keys, the original "Visual C++ 2.0" key and the "Visual C++ 2.0_Test" key. Future invocations of Visual C++ using the /I_Test switch will use the existing "Visual C++ 2.0_Test" key, taking advantage of customizations that are specific to that key.

CAUTION: Don't make modifications to the Registry by hand. The Registry is intended to be edited only by the application that uses it.