JSI Tip 4650. How do I use Windows XP Professional's System Restore to undo problem changes?

If changes have caused system problems, you can use System Restore to remove any system changes since the last time you remember things were working.

System restore does NOT affect your personal data files, so changes to documents, IE history, etc... won't be lost.

Windows XP creates “restore points” every day, as well as when you install a driver or application. You can also create a restore point any time you wish.

When you run System Restore, you choose the restore point from the calendar that is displayed.

To create a restore point:

1. Start / Help and Support / Performance and Maintenance / Using System Restore to undo changes / Run the System Restore Wizard.

 
2. Press Create a restore point and press Next.

 
3. In the Restore point description box, type a name to append to the date and time.

 
4. Press Create.

 

1. Start / Help and Support / Performance and Maintenance / Using System Restore to undo changes / Run the System Restore Wizard.

 
2. Press Restore my computer to an earlier time and press Next.

 
3. Press a date in the calendar to view the restore points created that day.

 
4. To restore, select a restore point and press Next.

 
5. Follow the on-screen instructions.