How to Register OCX Files

Last Updated: October 6, 2021

When you install software that contains OCX files, the Windows registry will automatically install and register those files. However, if you receive error messages about an OCX file or you just want to make sure your OCX files are registered correctly, we can help you register them yourself!

Steps

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Locate the OCX file you want to register. Go directly to your file if you know where it's stored on your computer, or use the Windows search feature.
- Search in Windows XP by clicking on the Start menu, then clicking on "Search." When the Search Companion dialog box appears, click on "All Files and Folders." Type in your search criteria and click on "Search."
- Search in Windows 7 by clicking on the Start menu (Windows logo) in the bottom left. When the pop-up window appears, type your search criteria in the field on the very bottom and click on the magnifying glass on its right to begin your search.
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Hold down the Shift key on your keyboard and right-click directly on the OCX file. When the pop-up menu window appears, click on "Open With."

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In the next dialog box that appears, click on "Browse."
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Navigate to and open the Windows folder, then open the System32 folder. Select the file named RegSvr32.exe by clicking on it, then click on "OK." You will then see a confirmation pop-up window saying that the OCX file was successfully registered.
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Tips

If you are unsuccessful at registering an OCX file after multiple attempts, it's possible that the file is corrupted. You may want to download a fresh version of the OCX file from a trusted source such as Microsoft.

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Warnings

Avoid deleting any OCX files from your computer when performing maintenance on your file folders because they are linked to applications that will no longer work upon deleting the OCX files. Deleting OCX files may also result in problems when you try to boot your computer. If you suspect an OCX file is corrupted or contains a virus, run your computer's virus or malware scanner to verify any malicious activity before deleting the OCX file.

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