Restore points are used to return your computer to a state in which it previously was. If your computer goes wrong and settings inadvertently change, you can use a restore point to go back to a previous state when your computer was working properly. In this guide, you will learn how to create a restore point in Windows XP and you will also learn how to use the restore point should your computer go wrong.
This guide will show you how to create a restore point in Windows XP. Here are guides for Windows Vista and 7:
Create a Restore Point
To create a restore point in Windows XP:
1. Press the WINKEY+R (or click Start > Run) and type msconfig.
![xp-system-restore01 xp system restore01 Create and Use a System Restore Point Windows XP [How To]](http://mintywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/xp-system-restore01.png)
2. On the General tab, click Launch System Restore.
![xp-system-restore02 xp system restore02 Create and Use a System Restore Point Windows XP [How To]](http://mintywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/xp-system-restore02.png)
3. Click Create a restore point and click Next.
![xp-system-restore03 xp system restore03 Create and Use a System Restore Point Windows XP [How To]](http://mintywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/xp-system-restore03.png)
4. Give your restore point a name and click Create.
![xp-system-restore04 xp system restore04 Create and Use a System Restore Point Windows XP [How To]](http://mintywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/xp-system-restore04.png)
You now have a restore point to revert back to–if needed.
![xp-system-restore05 xp system restore05 Create and Use a System Restore Point Windows XP [How To]](http://mintywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/xp-system-restore05.png)
Use a System Restore Point in XP
To restore your XP PC to a previous state:
1. Follow steps 1-2 above and click Resotre my computer to an earlier time. Click Next.
![xp-system-restore06 xp system restore06 Create and Use a System Restore Point Windows XP [How To]](http://mintywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/xp-system-restore06.png)
2. Pick a restore point you previously made and click Next.
![xp-system-restore07 xp system restore07 Create and Use a System Restore Point Windows XP [How To]](http://mintywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/xp-system-restore07.png)
3. Double check the restore point details and click Next.
![xp-system-restore08 xp system restore08 Create and Use a System Restore Point Windows XP [How To]](http://mintywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/xp-system-restore08.png)
4. System restore will overwrite settings and files with those previously in place (note: personal files will not be affected.)
![xp-system-restore09 xp system restore09 Create and Use a System Restore Point Windows XP [How To]](http://mintywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/xp-system-restore09.png)
5. After some time, system restore will be complete.
![xp-system-restore10 xp system restore10 Create and Use a System Restore Point Windows XP [How To]](http://mintywhite.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/xp-system-restore10.png)
Congratulations, you have restored your PC to a previous state and hopefully the problem you are experiencing is no longer an issue.
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