In Windows, how can I restore my computer to a previous configuration?

You can use a feature called System Restore to restore your Windows computer to a previous working configuration. To use System Restore, follow the appropriate steps for your operating system.

On this page:

• Windows 7
• Windows Vista
• Windows XP

Windows 7

1. In the Start menu search field, enter system restore.
   
   
2. Click Next. Choose a restore point that was created before your current configuration stopped working.

   Note: If you need to select a restore point that isn't listed, click Show more restore points.

3. Click Next, and then Finish.

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Windows Vista

1. In the Start menu search field, enter system restore.
   
   
2. Click Choose a different restore point, and then click Next.
   
   
3. Choose a restore point that was created before your current configuration stopped working. Click Next, and then Finish.

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Windows XP

1. Click Start and select Programs, then Accessories, then System Tools, and finally System Restore.

   Note: If this doesn't match what you see, refer to About navigation settings in Windows.

2. The first time you use System Restore, two options appear on the welcome page:
   
   
   • Restore my computer to an earlier time
   • Create a restore point
   
   
3. Click Restore my computer to an earlier time, and then click Next.
   
   
4. On the calendar that appears, choose the restore point to which you would like to roll your system back. Click Next.
   
   
5. You will be prompted to close all applications before completing the restore process, since the computer will restart.
   
   
6. After the computer restarts, a confirmation screen will appear. Click OK to continue using your computer.

The next time you start System Restore, you will see a third option, Undo my last restoration. This can be helpful if the restore point you rolled back to does not correct the original problem; you can easily return to the configuration from which you started troubleshooting.

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