- Windows XP System Restore -

Prinnter Friendly Version

The system restore function built into all versions of Windows XP (and ME) is a very powerful tool for maintaining your computer at a peak operating level.  It is used to restore your operating system to a prior state to eliminate problems caused by corrupted or conflicting hardware or software installations, but can also be useful if you have someone who tinkers with your computer and makes changes you don't like or that cause operational problems.  

Note: the information on this page is for quick reference only.  You should read the detailed information on the Microsoft website before you continue.  And, although the restore process does not erase any of your data, backup your data first!  You should also note that any programs that were installed after the restore point you pick will need to be reinstalled.

Follow these steps to restore your system....

If you can start Windows normally, the process is relatively simple:  If you can't start Windows normally, click here.

  1. left click the "Start" button
  2. hold the mouse cursor over the "All Programs" button (do not click on it)
  3. when the menu opens, move the cursor over the "Accessories" button
  4. then over "System Tools"
  5. then left click on "System Restore"

If you did everything properly, you should see this window:  "Restore my computer to an earlier time" should  be checked by default.  If not, left click on it now.

Then left click the "Next >" button...

You will then see the screen below.  You will see a calendar on the left side of the screen.  On the days when a system restore point was created, the date will be in bold print.  Click on one of the bold dates and you can read the details for that restore point in the window on the right.  Pick a point that will be prior to the time you began having system problems.  Then click the "Next >" button.



Your system will work for a few minutes and then reboot.  When it comes back on, you will be notified that your system has been restored successfully.  You will then have the option to continue and save the system files or undo the restore process entirely.

 

If you cannot start windows normally, you can perform a restore from the DOS prompt.

  1. Start your computer to Safe Mode (Press F8 while restarting) with Command Prompt. 
    NOTE: You must log on as the administrator or a user that has administrator rights.
  2. At the command prompt, type %systemroot%\system32\restore\rstrui.exe, and then press ENTER.
  3. Follow the instructions on the screen to begin restoring your computer to a previous, functional state.

If the restore process does not correct your problems, they may be of a more serious nature and you may need assistance.  There are other methods for resolving system problems, but they involve editing the system registry, etc. and are too involved to detail here.  If you would like our assistance, you can contact me at the number below or send me an email.