User Tip #35: Windows XP System Restore

Hits: Failed to execute CGI : Win32 Error Code = 3



Windows XP includes the System Restore feature, which is much like an enhanced Last Known Good Configuration. Just like LKG, you can use System Restore to restore the computer to a known previous state using the backups that it makes of selected system files and program files. System Restore is enhanced over LKG because it maintains multiple restore points instead of one last restore point.

Windows XP normally maintains a restore point for each drive letter if the feature is turned on. To turn on or off:

Notes: You must be logged in as an Administrator to do this. If you are not logged in as an Administrator, the System Restore tab will not be displayed.

If you turn off System Restore, the following message appears:

You have chosen to turn of System Restore. If you continue all existing restore points will be deleted and you will not be able to track or undo changes to your computer.

You normally don't want to turn of System Restore. For virus recovery and other specialized situations, you may want to delete the existing restore points and start over. There have also been reports of System Restore being turned ON but there being no restore points. The solution: turn System Restore off and then back on. Its asif the system does know that System Restore should be on.

Q306084 HOW TO: Restore the Operating System to a Previous State in Windows XP

For more information about System Restore:

There are registry hacks to disable user access to System Restore menu via Start menu or Control Panel.

Related tips:


Need to recover deleted files? Consider File-Saver which can recover deleted files. Fairly cheap at the price.
Consider making a direct contribution to help keep is-it-true.org on the Net by clicking on my Amazon honr system contribution paybox.
Amazon Honor System Click Here to Pay Learn More
FYI if you click on any of my Amazon book, movie, or music links and purchase anything from Amazon, is-it-true.org will get a small percentage. Consider coming back to my site and getting into Amazon from one of my Amazon links, if you are going to purchase an item. It will help keep my site on the Net.