RegShot is a Windows registry and directory comparison tool that captures two system snapshots and highlights the differences between them. This makes RegShot extremely useful for Malware analysis, Software auditing, System integrity checks. It works in three simple steps:
- Take a baseline snapshot (before action).
- Perform an action (install software / run malware).
- Take a second snapshot and compare.
Components
Below are some key features of RegShot:
1. Snapshot Comparison
RegShot allows users to take two registry snapshots, one before and one after a specific event (e.g., software installation or malware execution). The tool then compares the two and lists all keys and values that were added, deleted or modified.
2. Directory Scanning
In addition to registry analysis, RegShot can also scan and compare selected directories on the file system to track file changes, making it useful for detecting dropped or modified files.
3. Detailed Log Report
After comparison, RegShot generates a plain-text or HTML report summarizing all detected changes. This log can be saved, analyzed or used in documentation and forensic reports.
4. Lightweight and Portable
RegShot is extremely small in size and does not require installation, making it ideal for use in virtual labs or sandbox environments. Analysts can run it from a USB drive without leaving traces on the host system.
5. Open-Source and Free
Being open-source, RegShot is transparent, customizable and freely available. Analysts can review or modify its source code to suit specific research or investigation needs.
Installation and Setup
Follow these steps to install and use RegShot on Windows:
Step 1: Download RegShot
- Go to the web browser( e.g, chrome) and search for RegShot to go on official page(sourceforge).
- Download the ZIP archive containing RegShot.
Step 2: Extract the Files
- Right-click the ZIP file > Extract All > choose a convenient folder.
- You’ll find both 32-bit and 64-bit executables (e.g.,
Regshot-x64.exe).
Step 3: Run RegShot as Administrator
Right-click the executable >Run as administrator to ensure full registry access.
Step 4: Take the First Snapshot
Click 1st Shot > Shot to capture the current registry and optionally select directories.
Step 5: Perform the Action to Monitor
For example, install software, execute a file or run a suspected malware sample.
Step 6: Take the Second Snapshot
Click 2nd Shot > Shot, then choose Compare to analyze differences.
Step 7: Review the Report
- RegShot will display added, modified or deleted registry entries and files.
- You can save this report for further forensic analysis.
Use of RegShot in Cybersecurity
RegShot is extensively used in cybersecurity and malware analysis labs for tasks such as:
- Malware Behavior Analysis: Compares pre- and post-execution snapshots to identify registry, file system, persistence and configuration changes introduced by malware.
- Software Installation Auditing: Detects registry keys, services, startup entries and file modifications created during software installation or updates.
- System Integrity Monitoring: Identifies unauthorized registry and file system changes to detect post-exploitation activities, persistence or privilege escalation.
- Digital Forensics: Documents registry and file system modifications to reconstruct attacker actions and support forensic investigations.