How to: create a system restore point in XP and Vista

Before showing you how to create a system restore point, I guess I should explain what a restore point is anyway. System restore is a Windows native service that enables you to recover your computer from any harmful situations, be it caused by a virus, an application or misuse of the system’s tools.

Windows creates system restore points automatically by default, but it’s also a good idea to create them by yourself, for example before installing a program you’re not sure about or tweaking Windows Registry.

To create a system restore point in Windows XP, open the Start menu and go to All Programs > Accessories > System tools > System Restore. Then follow the wizard’s instructions and you’ll be able to create a restore points in a couple steps. To create a system restore point in Windows Vista, right-click the My Computer icon on your desktop and select Properties. Then click on the System Protection tab, make sure the System drive is selected and click on the Create button.

From now on, whenever you have problems with Windows XP or Vista, you’ll be able to use these restore points to get your computer back to its fully functional stage.