What are "Restore Points" in Windows, and how do I use them?

As a technology user, you're probably well aware of the importance of data and how it informs access for users, right?

Data loss is one of the most frustrating issues tech users face. Not everyone can afford to lose their data. Considering the severity of its consequences, Microsoft offers an in-built protection feature in Windows called System Restore. It allows users to revert their operating system to a previously known stable state with more ease. System Restore takes a snapshot of your computer's software, registry, and driver configurations at specific points in time. This snapshot then enables easier rollback of data.

This guide will introduce you to System Restore Points in Windows and discuss how they can be used.

What are Recovery Points in Windows?

A System Restore Point in Windows is a snapshot of the operating system's registry settings and configurations that can be used to revert the system to an earlier state, especially when it was functioning properly. It represents a point in time for your computer, serving as a milestone from which you can roll back the settings of your operating system to a previous condition.

There are two types of restore points: those created automatically by the Windows operating system, and those created at your request.

Windows automatically creates a restore point whenever an important event occurs, such as when you install a Windows update, a program, or make changes to critical system settings.

As a user, you can also create a System Restore point manually from System Properties > System Protection > Windows.

A System Restore Point helps back up essential Windows operating system files and settings, which can be used to revert your system to an earlier state. It's important to note that System Restore Points only affect the operating system and application files, not user data. However, if your files are located in areas that are significant to the System Restore Point, they might also be impacted.

How Does System Restore Work in Windows?

A restore point is an image of the operating system's state at the time it was created. Anything on the system drive, including the configuration, settings, and registry of your Windows PC, is part of a restore point. Many users create one before installing drivers, performing major Windows updates, or doing anything else that's critical to the health of their OS.

This system restore point can revert your Windows in case of a bad update or system corruption, helping users keep their PC secure. It also preserves the apps and data that exist on the device.

In the enterprise, System Restore points do not save the Windows Security Account Manager and un-backed-up passwords. Once a system restore is performed on a device, you will no longer have access to these files on that device.

In short, you can also say that when domain-joined company computers lose their connection, System Restore needs to rejoin the domain immediately.

Lastly, a System Restore point does not affect user data or files. It's not a full backup, but it ensures that users can access their system safely at any time. It doesn't remove personal files from your computer system, nor does it affect System Restore. Just be cautious as it typically cannot restore files deleted accidentally.

You might be interested in the article on how to Create a System Restore Point in Windows 10/11.

How to Use System Restore in Windows

Restoring your system using a Restore Point in Windows is a straightforward process that only takes a few clicks. If you're unsure how to do it, follow this detailed procedure:

If your computer has access to:

1. Open the Windows Start menu. Type in Recovery, then click the “Recovery” option that appears under “Settings.”

Step 2: Click the "Open System Restore" link, and the System Restore wizard will launch.

Step 3: Choose the most recent restore point, or pick one from the list. Then follow the wizard's instructions to restore your computer.

If your computer won't start:

If your computer won't start, you'll need to use a bootable USB drive to get to Advanced Recovery.

Step 1: Click “Troubleshoot” > “Advanced options” > “System Restore.”

Click on “System Restore,” and it will open a wizard asking you to choose a date.

Step 3. Choose a date when you believe your computer was working fine, and follow the wizard to restore your PC.

Epilogue

So, guys! Hope you have a perfect idea about System Restore Point in Windows and how to use it. If you have any queries, feel free to ask them in the comment section below.

Frequently Asked Questions about "Restore Point"

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) to help you efficiently address any queries you might have.

1. Will System Restore delete files?

No, a restore point doesn't delete associated files. It backs up all the files on the system drive, including user files.

2. How to use System Restore in Windows?

Please go to the 'Control Panel'. Type in Recovery. Choose 'Recover' and open 'System Restore'. Click 'Next' > 'Restore Point' and run the scan.

3. Will System Restore Remove Viruses?

No, System Restore does not remove viruses from files. However, if you use the Advanced Recovery Options to restore your computer, it will revert to a date when the virus was not present. In that sense, it can effectively eliminate the virus.