Using System Restore in Windows XP
The Windows XP operating system provides System Restore to allow you to return your
computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files) if changes to the
hardware, software, or other system settings have left the computer in an undesirable
operating state.
NOTICE: Back up your data files regularly. System Restore does not monitor your data files or
recover them.
Creating a Restore Point
Click the Start button and click Help and Support.
1
Click System Restore.
2
Follow the instructions on the screen.
3
Restoring the Computer to an Earlier Operating State
NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close all open
files and close all open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the
system restoration is complete.
Click the Start button, point to All Programs→Accessories→System Tools,
1
and then click System Restore.
Ensure that Restore my computer to an earlier time is selected, and then click Next.
2
Click a calendar date to which you want to restore your computer.
3
The Select a Restore Point screen provides a calendar that allows you to see and select
restore points. All calendar dates with available restore points appear in bold.
Select a restore point and click Next.
4
If a calendar date has only one restore point, then that restore point is automatically
selected. If two or more restore points are available, click the restore point that you
prefer.
Click Next.
5
The Restoration Complete screen appears after System Restore finishes collecting
data, and then the computer automatically restarts.
After the computer restarts, click OK.
6
To change the restore point, you can either repeat the steps using a different restore
point, or you can undo the restoration.
Setup and Quick Re ference Guide
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