How to Clean a System Restore Folder

When installing software, Microsoft Windows XP takes a restore backup and copies it to the hard drive. The backups are used for restoration from a corrupted install or registry. The restore process makes it easy to fix these errors on the computer. However, these files are also a point of attack by viruses. They are protected from manipulation, so using antivirus software on them fails because of the files' attributes. Some steps are needed to give your antivirus software access to restore files.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Click the Windows "Start" button and select "Control Panel." Double-click the "Performance and Maintenance" icon.

2. Double-click the "System" icon. This opens a window with optional tabs. Click the "System Restore" tab.

3. Check the selection that is labeled "Turn off System Restore for all drives." This turns off system restore, releasing the files. Click the "Ok" button to save changes.

4. Run your antivirus program again and clean the system restore files. Follow the previous steps again except clear the check box labeled "Turn off System Restore for all drives." This enables the system restore again.

References

• bitdefender.com