Note: While this tip is geared towards Windows 7 users, except for some minor differences, Vista users can proceed, using the same process.

Are you having computer problems that nothing seems to fix? Do you wish you could go back to an earlier time and undo something you’ve done? A time before you started having problems. A time before you installed that new software. A time when the sun was shining, flowers were in bloom, and that stupid computer worked. You might try System Restore, a Windows utility designed to return your computer to an earlier time.

Running System Restore

Accessing System Restore and starting the process in Windows 7 just takes a few minutes. Running it, however, takes much longer, but it’s probably the best problem solving feature in your computer. You begin by clicking on the Start button and clicking the Accessories folder in All Programs. In the Accessories folder, you’ll find the System Tools folder.

In the System Tools folder, look for System Restore.

Click on that and your System Restore window will open.

Click on the Next button.

This window shows a series of dates and times at which restore points were set. If a date earlier than the time you started having problems is showing, you can select it. If not, you can check the box beside Show more restore points. It’s best not to go too far back. It’s time now to remember when it was that the sun, flowers, and that stupid computer were doing what they were supposed to be doing. Select your date and click Next.

One last chance. If you’re satisfied that this is the date you want, click Finish. Take a break. This will take a while and will include an automatic Restart.

Tinkering with System Restore Settings

If you’re comfortable adjusting settings in your computer, you might try making some modifications to your System Restore settings. Click Start then right click on Computer. Select Properties from the submenu.

Click on Advanced system settings.

Click on the System Protection tab at the top, then the Configure button at the lower right.

At this point, you can increase or decrease the number of restore points (the moments in time to which you can return) by using the slider near the bottom of the window.

With any luck, you’ll never need System Restore, but if you ever do, I hope the information we’ve provided here will help you understand and execute it.

~Kevin