In Windows Me or XP, how can I restore my computer to a previous configuration?

You can use a feature called System Restore to restore your Windows Me or XP computer to a previous working configuration. To use System Restore, follow these steps:

1. Click Start and select Programs, then Accessories, then System Tools, and finally System Restore.

   Note: The Windows XP default desktop view and Start menu are different from the Windows Classic View (e.g., in Windows 2000). Therefore, navigating to certain items can be different. In the interest of broad applicability, most Knowledge Base instructions assume you are using Classic View. For information about switching your Windows XP default view to Classic View, see In Windows XP, how do I switch to the Windows Classic View, Classic theme, or Classic Control Panel?

2. The first time you use System Restore, two options appear on the welcome page:
   
   
   • Restore my computer to an earlier time
   • Create a restore point
   
   
3. Click Restore my computer to an earlier time, and then click Next.
   
   
4. On the calendar that appears, choose the restore point to which you would like to roll your system back. Click Next.
   
   
5. You will be prompted to close all applications before completing the restore process, because the computer will restart.
   
   
6. After the computer restarts, a confirmation screen will appear. Click OK to continue using your computer.

The next time you start System Restore, you will see a third option, Undo my last restoration. This can be helpful if the restore point you rolled back to does not correct the original problem that you were having; you can easily return to the configuration from which you started troubleshooting.

Also see:

• In Windows Me or XP, how can I save my computer's configuration for use in a System Restore?