How to Set System Restore Points in Windows XP

The Windows XP operating system, made by the Microsoft Corporation, was one of the most intuitive windows-based operating systems of its time. Some of the best added features that XP had to offer over older Windows applications were the ease of use, the minimal bugs and the automatic back-up feature found in the System Restore settings. Setting system-restore points in Windows is necessary just in case your computer ever crashes. When you set a restore point, it creates a backup of all of your files and settings to that point. This is very helpful in the event that your computer crashes and you are left wondering how to fix it. Sometimes the fastest fix is by simply restoring your computer to an early point.

Things You'll Need

• Windows XP
• Home computer

Instructions

1. Access the Start menu. You will need to left-click on the "Start" button, located on the lower left-hand side of the screen; a submenu will open.

2. Access the Control Panel. Scroll to the right of the submenu and left-click into “Control Panel."

3. Select the “Performance and Maintenance” feature. Under the Control Panel, there are several icons; left-click on the “Performance and Maintenance” icon. A new menu will open. On the left-hand side of the new menu, there will be a “System Restore” link. Left-click on this link and the System Restore menu will open.

4. Set a System Restore point. Click on the “Create a Restore Point” button, then click “Next." Enter in any text for a description, then click “Create."

Tips & Warnings

• You can also set up Windows XP to automatically create System Restore points on a daily, weekly or monthly basis.

• Make sure that you have closed all open applications before setting a restore point in Windows XP.