Using the Windows System Restore feature, you can restore your computer system to a state prior to the occurrence of a problem. System Restore monitors changes to certain system and application files, including the Windows registry. System Restore functions like an "undo" feature for Windows XP configuration changes, allowing you to recover from problems caused by such things as incorrect system settings, faulty drivers, incompatible applications and so on, without risk to personal files, such as documents or e-mail.

You must log on as an administrator or as a member of the Administrators group to use System Restore.

Before changing registry settings, create a restore point. If a problem occurs, you can easily undo the effects of the registry settings by reverting to a previous state.

To create a restore point

1. Click "Start", then click "Help and Support", and under Pick a task, click "Undo changes to your computer with System Restore".

Or you follow this path: Programs --> Accessories --> System tools --> System restore

2. On the Welcome to System Restore screen, click "Create a restore point", and then click "Next".

3. At the "Create a Restore Point screen", type a brief description for the restore point in the Restore point description line.
4. Click the "Create" button.
 
To restore the system by using a restore point

1. Click "Start", then click "Help and Support", and under Pick a task, click "Undo changes to your computer with System Restore".

Or you follow this path: Programs --> Accessories --> System tools --> System restore

2. On the Welcome to System Restore screen, click "Restore my computer to an earlier time", and then click "Next".

3. Select a restore point on the Select a Restore Point screen, and then click "Next".

4. At the Confirm Restore Point screen, click "Next".