System Restore is a feature of Microsoft Windows that allows users to revert their computer’s state (including system files, installed applications, Windows registry, and system settings) to that of a previous point in time. System Restore can help resolve software conflicts, prevent malware from infecting the computer, and even fix certain types of foul computer errors. This article explains how to use System Restore in Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.
Before You Begin
Before using System Restore, you should be aware of a few things:
• System Restore does not affect any of your documents, pictures, or other data.
• System Restore may not solve all of your computer problems.
• System Restore only affects Windows system files, programs, and registry settings. It will not recover deleted files or any other user data.
Using System Restore in Windows 10
1. Open Control Panel and click System and Maintenance. Then, click Recovery.
2. On the left side of the window, click Create a restore point.
3. In the resulting window, click System Restore. This will take you to the System Properties window.
4. Click Next on the System Restore window.
5. Select an earlier date on the calendar where you want the computer to be restored to.
6. Click Next.
7. Read the warning message and click Finish.
8. The computer should now begin restoring to the selected date. When it is finished, you will see a confirmation message. Click OK to exit the System Restore window.
Using System Restore in Windows 8
1. Open the Charms bar and select Settings.
2. Select Change PC settings.
3. On the left side of the window, choose Update and Recovery.
4. Under the General tab, select File History.
5. On the right side of the window, select System Restore.
6. Click Next on the System Restore window.
7. Select an earlier date on the calendar where you want the computer to restore to.
8. Click Next.
9. Read the warning message and click Finish.
10. The computer should now begin restoring to the selected date. When it is finished, you will see a confirmation message. Click OK to exit the System Restore window.
Using System Restore in Windows 7
1. Open the Start menu and click All Programs.
2. Select Accessories and then System Tools.
3. In the System Tools folder, select System Restore.
4. Click Next on the System Restore window.
5. Select an earlier date on the calendar where you want the computer to restore to.
6. Click Next.
7. Read the warning message and click Finish.
8. The computer should now begin restoring to the selected date. When it is finished, you will see a confirmation message. Click OK to exit the System Restore window.
Using System Restore in Windows Vista
1. Open the Start menu and click All Programs.
2. Select Accessories and then System Tools.
3. In the System Tools folder, select System Restore.
4. Click Next on the System Restore window.
5. Choose the option to Restore my computer to an earlier time.
6. Select an earlier date on the calendar where you want the computer to restore to.
7. Click Next.
8. Read the warning message and click Finish.
9. The computer should now begin restoring to the selected date. When it is finished, you will see a confirmation message. Click OK to exit the System Restore window.
Once you have used System Restore to restore your computer to a previous point in time, you can check to make sure that the restore was successful. To do this, open the Control Panel and select System and Security. Then, select System and check to make sure that the Date and Time of the restoration matches the date you chose. If all looks good, your computer has been successfully restored to the desired state.
System Restore is a powerful tool, and it is important to remember that changes made by the restore cannot be undone. Be sure to make backups of important files before attempting a System Restore. Additionally, if System Restore does not appear to be working correctly, it might be necessary to reboot the computer and try again. If it still fails, you may want to consult a professional for help.