Oh, the Doing and Undoing!

Like many computer users I’m always interested in trying something new. This means I’m often looking for new applications and registry hacks on the web to improve my computer operation. Sometimes these exploits end up in disaster.

Every time I download an application, install a new game, perform a software update, I’m making changes to my computer. Sometimes these changes may make my system unstable.

Most new applications automatically create a System Restore point on installation. They are then easy to remove using System Restore.

What is System Restore?

System Restore is part of Windows operating system. It is used to roll-back system files, registry keys, installed programs etc. to a previous state prior to them malfunctioning. It has been around a long time starting in Windows ME right up to Windows 7.

Windows 7 creates System Restore points automatically every day, and just before significant system events, such as the installation of Windows Upgrade files or a new program or a device driver. You can also create a Restore Point manually. This can be useful if you anticipate the new program or the changes you are about to use may be risky or make your computer unstable.

Fortunately, System Restore does not affect personal data files in the Library folders, My Documents, My Pictures, My Music, My Videos et al. You won’t lose any of this information when using System Restore.

Try using restore points created just before the date and time when you start noticing problems. When you open System Restore you have the option of checking to see which programs will be affected.

The “Golden Rule” is:  “Create a Restore Point before you make any changes to your computer.” Then if something goes wrong, use System Restore to select a Restore Point prior to when the problem occurred and when the computer was functioning perfectly.

While Windows 7 automatically creates System Restore points whenever you make changes to your system you can create one manually. This is covered in the next section.