Backing up Your Data - System Restore

System Restore has the capability to take a snapshot of your system the way it's currently working; this consists of backing up your registry and key system files.

If you haven't disabled this functionality manually, then System Restore will usually make a 'checkpoint' each time you install a program or update a driver (it will also make one after a set period of time too). However, if for example you're about to edit the registry and System Restore hasn't ran for a while, then you'll need to make a checkpoint yourself.

There are two ways to access System Restore; through 'Help and Support' or through your 'All Programs' folder.

Help and Support:

1. Click Start, and then click Help and Support.
2. Under Pick a Task, click 'Undo changes to your computer with System Restore'.

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'All Programs' menu:

1. Click Start.
2. Point to All Programs.
3. Point to Accessories.
4. Point to System Tools.
5. Click 'System Restore'.

Once System Restore is open, you can create a restore point by simply clicking 'Next', typing a name for the restore point, and then clicking 'Create'.

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To restore a checkpoint in the future, simply open System Restore again, select 'Restore my computer to an earlier time', find your restore point on the calendar, select it, then click 'Restore' (your PC will usually now have to be restarted to complete the restoration process).

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*note It must be said than many users have found System Restore's reliability lacklustre at times, and the odds are that it might not actually work if you have a really serious problem with Windows. It is however very convenient and easy to use, and usually works quite well (if your system is already in pretty good shape).

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Navigation:

• Backing up your Data
  • Backing up your Registry
  • Backing up your system files with Microsoft System Restore
  • Making a backup of your documents using Windows Backup
  • Making a full backup image of your hard disk