# Registry Value Types (Brief Overview)

Registry values store data in various formats. Understanding the basic types helps in interpreting the information found:

* `REG_SZ`: A standard, fixed-length **text string**. Often used for file paths, descriptive names, or simple text settings.
* `REG_EXPAND_SZ`: An **expandable text string**. Similar to `REG_SZ`, but it can contain environment variables (like `%SystemRoot%` or `%USERNAME%`) that are expanded by the system when the value is read.
* `REG_BINARY`: Raw **binary data**, displayed in hexadecimal format in `regedit`. Used for storing complex configuration data, flags, or sometimes even small embedded files or structures.
* `REG_DWORD` (32-bit) / `REG_QWORD` (64-bit): **Numerical values**. Often used for storing integer settings, boolean flags (where `0` typically means False/Disabled and `1` means True/Enabled), or bitmasks.
* `REG_MULTI_SZ`: Stores **multiple text strings** within a single value entry. The strings are separated by null characters, with a final double null character indicating the end. Used for lists like network protocols or service dependencies.