If you’re a Windows XP user, you know that system restore is a powerful tool that can help you recover your computer if something goes wrong. Here’s how to use system restore in Windows XP:

  1. Open the Start menu and type “system restore.”
  2. When the system restore window opens, click on the “Restore my computer” button.
  3. In the next window, you’ll be asked to choose a restoration point. Click on the “Next” button to continue.
  4. In the next window, you’ll be asked to choose a restore disk image or directory to use for your restoration project. Click on the “Next” button to continue.
  5. In the next window, you’ll be asked to choose a time range for your restoration project. Click on the “Next” button to continue.
  6. In the next window, you’ll be asked to choose an action for your restoration project: create a new Restore Point or Update My Computer Now! action if you’re restoring from a disk image or directory; or copy files and folders from an existing Restore Point if you’re restoring from a live computer session (i.e., when it’s running). Click on the “Next” button to continue.

Note that some software installations will create restore points automatically, but you should run it manually before installing any questionable applications. (Or better yet, don’t install questionable applications!)

 

Creating a Restore Point Manually

To create a Restore Point click on Start \ programs\ Accessories \ System Tools \ System Restore, and you’ll be given a wizard screen.

Click on “Create a restore point” and then click the Next button. You’ll be brought to a screen where you can type in a description for your restore point. Use something memorable if possible.

Once your restore point is created (which might take a while), you will get a confirmation screen.

All done creating the restore point!

 

Restoring from a Restore Point

To restore from a previously created restore point, open System Restore the same as above, but this time we’ll select “Restore my computer to an earlier time”. Note that System Restore is going to reboot your computer in order to restore.

Click the next button, and you’ll be shown a calendar with bolded dates wherever there is a restore point. Click on the date, and then click a restore point in the right hand side.

You’ll get a confirmation screen asking if you really want to do this. We’ll assume that there’s a problem requiring you to restore, so go ahead.

Your system will reboot and then restore your computer back to the previous configuration.