6 Ways to Resolve System Restore Initializing Issue in Windows 11/10

[System Restore is initializing]

Windows 10 System Restore is a valuable repair and recovery tool for numerous Windows users. It enables users to revert system files, registries, drivers, and other software to an earlier configuration and settings. This feature of System Restore assists users in resolving various issues they encounter while using their computers.

Although System Restore generally functions efficiently and conveniently, there are instances when it can become highly frustrating. Occasionally, when users rely on System Restore to revert their system, the process runs for over two hours without making any noticeable progress. The screen displays a message reading, "Please wait while your Windows files and settings are being restored. System Restore is initializing...". This prevalent and perplexing issue leaves many Windows users baffled. Today, we focus on this critical error in Windows System Restore - the System Restore is initializing problem.

Dealing with this error can be quite a challenge. If you're facing this issue, don't panic. Today, we'll present you with six efficient and straightforward methods to resolve the "System Restore is initializing" issue.

Why Does System Restore Get Stuck on Initializing?

There could be several reasons why System Restore might get stuck with the message "System Restore is initializing." Issues might arise due to damaged system files, problems with bad sectors on the disk, or conflicts between Windows 10 System Recovery and other applications or software.

Damaged System Files

A system file is crucial to the functioning of the Operating System, and when it becomes damaged and unable to fulfill its intended purpose, it can be deemed corrupt. In Windows 11 or 10, corrupted system files can lead to system malfunction, preventing you from performing a normal System Restore. It is therefore imperative to address and repair these issues promptly.

Bad Sectors

Sometimes, when one or more bad sectors occur on a hard drive, the disk might malfunction. Upon such an event, crucial data within the bad sectors might be lost, but the data on the rest of the disk remains unaffected, and the disk can still be used entirely. When using System Restore to back up files on a disk, there is a significant risk of failure or errors due to data loss. It is essential to contemplate how to repair bad sectors appropriately and efficiently, such as by using bad sector repair software.

Problematic Restore Point

System restore points can be instrumental in reverting your Windows system to a previous state when the OS crashes or unexpected incidents occur. When Windows users attempt to execute a System Restore, they might inadvertently discover that their system restore points are missing or have vanished. If the restore point becomes damaged or corrupted in any way, the System Restore process might get stuck and display an error message stating "System Restore is initializing."

Temporary Issues with Your Disk

Occasionally, insufficient disk space can also cause the "System Restore is initializing" issue. System Restore requires a specific amount of disk space. When the size of the old restore points exceeds the limit you've set, they are automatically deleted to accommodate new restore points. Ideally, for optimal disk usage, allocate around 5% of the backup drive's capacity for storing restore points, ensuring the proper functioning of System Restore.

Regardless of the cause, there are several techniques you can attempt to resolve the issue and enable you to rerun System Restore on your computer to recover your files. Let's examine these methods in depth, and we'll guide you through each solution with detailed steps and accompanying screenshots.

< a id="fix_system_restore_is_initializing" name="fix_system_restore_is_initializing" > 6 Ways to Solve "System Restore is Initializing" Error in Windows 11/10

When encountering an error message such as "System Restore is initializing," it's advisable to initially be patient and wait for some time. Considering the abundance of data and files on your computer, the process can genuinely take a while. However, if the error persists, you should consider attempting the following methods to resolve the issue and safeguard your laptop.

1. Method 1. Boot System into Safe Mode
2. Method 2. Run System Restore Through Command Prompt
3. Method 3. Run Startup Repair to Fix System Restore Stuck
4. Method 4. Use the System File Checker (SFC)
5. Method 5. Perform a Clean Boot
6. Method 6. Try Another Restore Point

Method 1: Boot the System into Safe Mode

If your Windows persists in displaying the "System Restore is initializing" screen, you can proceed to boot your system into Safe Mode. For this, you will require installation media.

Step 1. Insert your Windows installation media and then restart your computer.

Step 2. On the "Install Windows" screen, click "Repair your computer".

Step 3. On the "Choose an option" screen, select Troubleshoot. Next, choose "Advanced options," then click "Startup Settings," and finally, click "Restart."

Step 4. When your computer restarts, press F5 to start your PC in Safe Mode.

Method 2: Perform System Restore via Command Prompt

This approach might be more effective in resolving the issue of Windows 10 System Restore being stuck. Feel free to give it a try:

Step 1. Boot your computer from the installation media as described above.

Step 2. On the "Install Windows" screen, choose Repair your computer.

Step 3. On the "Choose an option" screen, select "Troubleshoot" > "Advanced options" > "Startup Settings" > "Restart" in succession.

Step 4. After your PC restarts, press six or F6 to restart your PC in Safe Mode with Command Prompt.

Step 5. After your computer restarts, click the search button on the taskbar and type cmd. Right-click on the Command Prompt and choose "Run as administrator."

Step 6. In Command Prompt, type rstrui.exe, and then press Enter. Next, follow the System Restore wizard to restore your computer by selecting an available restore point from the list provided.

Method 3: Perform Startup Repair to Fix System Restore Stuck

This method is applicable when a computer usually boots up after a forced shutdown but encounters issues in attempting to recover the system. One possible reason for the system recovery being stuck could be a damaged boot manager. You can resolve this issue by performing a "Startup Repair."

Step 1. Restart your System; you will see the "Choose an option" screen.

Step 2. From the "Choose an option" screen, select "Troubleshoot".

Step 3. Choose "Advanced options" and click "Startup Repair" to run the startup repair automatically.

Method 4: Utilize the System File Checker (SFC)

The System File Checker (SFC) is a valuable utility for users to address issues with their system files. This approach is crucial for resolving corrupted system files. To utilize this method, please follow these steps:

Step 1. Open a Command Prompt window with Administrator privileges. To do this, simultaneously press the "Windows key + R" to open the Run dialog box. Next, type cmd and press Enter.

Step 2. In the Command Prompt, type SFC /scannow, then press Enter.

Step 3. It will then scan your system to locate corrupted files and fix them. Once it's done, try running System Restore again.

Further Reading: SFC SCANNOW Stuck

Method 5: Perform a Clean Boot

You can start up your Windows operating system with minimal drivers and startup programs by performing a clean boot. To carry out a clean boot, please follow this guide:

Step 1. Open the Run dialog box again (Windows key + R) and type "MSConfig".

Step 2. Click on the "Services" tab and check the box that says "Hide all Microsoft services." This will disable all Microsoft services, ensuring they don't interfere with the System Restore process.

Step 3. Click on the "Disable all" button to disable all other non-Microsoft services.

Step 4. Navigate to the "Startup" option and click on the "Open Task Manager" button.

Step 5. In the Task Manager, navigate to the "Startup" tab, and disable all startup items.

Step 6. Close Task Manager and finally click on the "OK" button.

Step 7. Restart your computer and attempt to use System Restore again.

Method 6: Try Another Restore Point

When your System Restore is stuck on the "System Restore is initializing" page, you can choose a different restore point and proceed with the following steps:

Step 1. Open the "Control Panel" and navigate to "System and Security."

Step 2. Click "System" and select "System Protection" from the left-hand side menu.

Step 3. Tap on the "System Restore" button, and then follow the on-screen instructions to restore your computer.

Step 4. Once you're on the "Select a restore point" page, choose a different restore point from the list and see if that resolves the issue.

Conclusion

In summary, "System Restore is initializing" is not a significant issue. Rather, it is a common scenario that most Windows users will encounter when utilizing System Restore to recover their files and system.

If you're looking for more accessible solutions to address this issue, you can follow the上述6 methods. However, these methods don't provide a comprehensive solution for safeguarding your computer. It's crucial to regularly back up Windows 10/11 and your important files and data.

System Restore Initialization FAQs

Here, we've also linked some other related hot questions about "System Restore is initializing," and if you have similar doubts, follow along to find the answers:

1. How long should System Restore initialization take?

Typically, the System Restore process takes around 30 minutes to an hour to complete. If you notice that 45 minutes have elapsed and it has not finished, the program might be frozen, and the system could be stuck. In such a scenario, you'll need to take some steps to address this issue.

2. What happens if I interrupt System Restore in Windows 10?

If you interrupt System Restore on Windows 10, the consequences can be unforeseen. As you initiate the System Restore, it advises against manually interrupting the process. Doing so may result in an incomplete restoration of system files or registry backups. Furthermore, your System Restore may become stuck and prevent your system from booting up for an extended period.

3. What happens if System Restore is stuck? If System Restore gets stuck, it could be due to various reasons such as corrupt system files, antivirus interference, or an interrupted process. Here's what you can do: 1. **Wait**: Sometimes, the process might take longer than expected. Give it around 30 minutes to see if it completes on its own. 2. **Force Restart**: Press and hold the power button until your computer turns off, then turn it back on and try System Restore again. 3. **Safe Mode**: Boot your computer into Safe Mode and attempt System Restore from there. This can bypass any conflicting software. 4. **Check for Viruses**: Run a full system scan to ensure malware isn't causing the issue. 5. **Manually Fix System Files**: Use the Command Prompt to run a System File Checker (SFC) scan to repair any corrupted system files. 6. **Try a Different Restore Point**: If one restore point isn't working, choose another one and try again. 7. **Contact Support**: If all else fails, consider reaching out to Microsoft or your computer manufacturer's technical support for further assistance.

If you've been waiting a considerable duration and need to halt the System Restore operation, you can forcibly restart the System. However, be aware that this might result in the System failing to boot up. Should that happen, interrupt the boot process three consecutive times, and Windows 10 will initiate an automatic repair process.

4. How to fix "System Restore is restoring the registry"?

Windows users might encounter an issue where System Restore gets stuck on "Restoring the registry" for an extended period. To resolve this, you can try the following steps: 1. **Boot into Safe Mode**: Restart your computer and repeatedly press F8 during startup to access the Advanced Boot Options menu. Choose 'Safe Mode with Networking' to start your system in a minimal environment. 2. **Stop the System Restore Process**: - Press `Win + R` to open the Run dialog box. - Type `services.msc` and hit Enter to open Services. - Locate the `System Restore and Shadow Copy` service, right-click on it, and select 'Stop'. 3. **Manually Fix the Registry**: Backup your registry first (important!) by going to `RegEdit` (press `Win + R`, type `regedit`, and hit Enter), then navigate to `File > Export`. Save the backup file to a secure location. - Navigate to `HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session Manager`. - Look for a key named `PendingFileRenameOperations` and delete it if present. 4. **Resume System Restore**: Restart your computer normally. The System Restore process should continue from where it stopped. If not, try restarting System Restore: - Open Command Prompt as an Administrator (right-click on Command Prompt and choose 'Run as administrator'). - Type `rstrui.exe` and press Enter to launch System Restore. - Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the restore process. 5. **Scan for Malware**: It's possible that malware is interfering with System Restore. Run a full system scan using your antivirus software or a trusted malware scanner. 6. **Update or Reinstall System Files**: Use the System File Checker (SFC) tool to check and repair corrupted system files: - In Command Prompt, type `sfc /scannow` and press Enter. - Wait for the scan to finish, and restart your computer. 7. **Perform a Clean Boot**: This helps identify if any third-party applications are causing the issue. Disable non-Microsoft services and startup items, then try System Restore again. 8. **Restore from a Different Restore Point**: If the current restore point is problematic, choose a different one and attempt System Restore again. 9. **Contact Microsoft Support**: If none of these solutions work, consider reaching out to Microsoft Support for professional assistance. Remember to create a new system restore point after resolving the issue for future safety.

1. Perform a System Restore to a Point of No Errors

2. Update the Drivers in Safe Mode

3. Execute Some Commands for Advanced Troubleshooting