How to Restore Windows XP Defaults

The Windows XP operating system comes with a restore solution that replaces settings with the defaults. Windows XP takes snapshots of settings throughout the lifetime of the computer. When the user wishes to return to default settings, the restore option has a snapshot from when the operating system was first installed. The advantage to using this option is that it restores operating system defaults, but it leaves files and program settings. Restoring defaults only takes a few steps.

Instructions

1. Click the Windows "Start" menu and select "All Programs." From the menu, select "Accessories." From this menu, select "System Tools."

2. Click the "System Restore" button.

3. Enter your username and password if it is required. If you are logged in as the administrators, this option isn't required.

4. Select the date of the restore point. This window has a list of several dates, so you can choose the most recent date or choose the first snapshot for a complete default restore.

5. Click "Ok" and reboot the computer for the settings to take place.

References

• Microsoft