How to Recover a Lost User Profile on Windows XP Home Edition

Recover a lost user profile with "System Restore."

If you think you have lost your user profile on Windows XP, try using the "System Restore." The "System Restore" is designed to restore your computer to the state it was before the problem occurred.

Instructions

1. Click on the "Start" button at the bottom-left corner of your screen.

2. Choose "All Programs," then choose "Accessories," and "System Tools."

3. Click on "System Restore," and then "Next" when the "Welcome" page appears.

4. On the "Select a Restore Point" page, choose the last restore point. Click "Next."

Tips & Warnings

• If you cannot restore your user profile using the "System Restore," create a new user account and recover the files from the corrupt account.

References

• Get IT Done: Recover a damaged Windows XP user profile; Greg Shultz; 2003

Resources

• Recovering a Lost User Profile in Windows XP; KennethSleight; 2009
• Microsoft Support