How to Restore the System State in Windows 2003

Restoring the system state can remove unwanted modifications or data corruption.

Windows Server 2003's "system state" is a collection of several system variables, including the Windows Registry and the system's certificate services. Microsoft includes a way to restore all of these to their most recent backed-up state--assuming such a backup exists.

Things You'll Need

• System state backup

Instructions

1. Make sure you have Administrative privileges. You can either log on as the Administrator or use the "Run As" function, which will do the job without the security risk of a prolonged login session as the Administrator.

2. Enter the Start Menu and navigate this path: "All Programs" > "Accessories" > "System Tools" > "Backup." If you are not logged on as the Administrator, right-click "Backup," select "Run As" and enter the administrative username and password.

3. Click the "Advanced Mode" link.

4. Click the "Restore and Manage Media" tab.

5. Click the box next to "System State."

References

• Microsoft Technet: Restore System State Data