What is the standard header for a Windows Registry file?

The standard header for a Windows Registry file is "REGF." This header indicates that the file follows the structure and format defined for Windows Registry data. Each Registry file contains a binary structure that begins with this specific header, allowing the Windows operating system to recognize and correctly interpret the information contained within the file.

The presence of the REGF header is crucial because it not only signifies that the file format is valid but also helps in differentiating registry files from other file types that may be present in a system. Understanding this standard is important for anyone working in digital forensics or system administration, as it facilitates the correct parsing and analysis of the Registry content.

Other options like REGFILE, WINREG, and SYSREG do not represent standard headers for Windows Registry files, as they don't correspond to the recognized formats or specifications defined by Microsoft for Registry files. Thus, being familiar with the REGF header is fundamental for effectively handling and analyzing Windows Registry files in forensic investigations.