System Restore
Overview
System Restore works a lot like the Undo command in Microsoft Word. You can use System Restore to remove any system changes that were made since the last time you remember your computer working correctly. System Restore does not affect your personal data files (such as Microsoft Word documents, browsing history, drawings, favorites, or email so you won't lose changes made to these files.
This is most effective to use when attempting to get rid of viruses such as a fake antivirus program.
This will not always work because in some cases the virus is smart enough to disable System Restore or to not allow it to work properly.
Using System Restore
How does System restore work?
Windows periodically records a snapshot of your computer. These snapshots are called restore points. Windows also creates restore points at the time of significant system events (such as when an application or driver is installed) or you can create and name your own restore points at any time. If you have installed a program that has made your computer unstable, you can open system restore, choose a restore point, and return your computer to its previous stable state.
When you run System Restore, a calendar is displayed to help you find restore points. If you don't use your computer every day, some days might not have any restore points. If you use your computer frequently, you might have restore points almost every day, and some days might have several restore points.
Use System Restore to undo changes you have made to your computer
Before you open the System Restore console, you may want to save your work and close all programs since System Restore requires you to restart your computer.
System Restore with Windows 10
Remove everything and reinstall Windows
To reset your Windows 10 PC
- Using the search bar, open Settings.
- Click "Update & Security"
- Click "Recovery" on the left side of the window.
- Select "Get Started" under the "Reset this PC" title
- Select "Remove everything"
- Follow the instructions on the screen.
Refresh your Windows 10 PC without affecting your files
To refresh your PC
- Using the search bar, open Settings
- Click "Update & Security"
- Click "Recovery" on the left side of the window
- Select "Get Started" under the "Reset this PC" title
- Select "Keep my files"
- Follow the instructions on the screen