How to Put a Computer Back to a Previous Time

By Christopher Kennedy

Updated September 28, 2017

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System restore is a program bundled with Windows that allows user to restore their computer to a previous time and date in the event that their computer becomes infected with a virus or experiences problems associated with software conflicts. More importantly, it is a safeguard to protect the computer system against children and users who may unintentionally cause an issue within a computer. The system restore process is an easy and simple process to undertake.

Click the "Start" button, followed by the "Programs" link to access the list of software on your computer.

Navigate to the "Accessories" folder and within, find the "System Tools" folder. From the list of applications, select "System Restore."

Your computer will take a moment to access System restore. When it is finished, read the disclaimer and click "Next."

From the resulting list, select a day in which you wish to set your computer back to. If you are worried that you may lose a particular program, you can click the "Scan for affected programs" button to see a list of programs that will be uninstalled due too the restore process. If you wish to set your computer back to another date, click the "Show more restore points" button. When you are finished, click "Next."

Confirm on the last page the date and time to which your computer will be restored. If you are satisfied, click "Finish" to begin the restoration process. Your computer will log you off your user account and begin to set your computer back to the day you requested.

Tips

Even though system restore does not delete any personal files, it is a good measure to back up all your personal files just in case something goes wrong.

If restoring your computer does not resolve your issue, you can undo the results and pick another date.

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