If you do not know how to perform a System Restore on your computer than this article is for you. Everyone, from a beginner to an expert on computers, should know how to do a System Restore. Actually, I would say that the beginners probably need to know about this tool more so than an expert. System Restore allows you revert your computer to a previous date. Primarily, a date when your computer was running just fine.

For example, a few weeks ago I installed a spyware removing tool on my computer. I ran the program, it supposedly did its job and then I shut down the computer. The next time I booted up, I had a slew of pop-up ads and a completely sluggish machine. After trying to get rid of the Trojan horse that had infected my computer through the spyware remover, I remembered that the easiest thing to do would be to use the System Restore. I could select a date from before the spyware remover was even installed. It’s like a save point for your entire system. Your computer will go back to its exact form on the date you selected. Anything installed, uninstalled or changed since that date will no longer be in effect.

System Restore is the same for both Windows XP and Vista users. Go to your Start button -> All Programs -> Accessories -> System Tools -> System Restore.

While you’re thinking about it, now might be a great time to create a Restore Point. Microsoft often automatically creates Restore Points for you go back to. These points may not be as desirable as you would like. To create a Restore Point, follow the steps above and when the System Restore Wizard opens select Next and then Create Restore Point. This is something I try to do before I install anything and I really believe in it and recommend doing it to anyone! So if you turn on your computer one day and think, “Gosh, I wish my computer was running like it was last week” then just do a System Restore and your wish will be granted!

Updating Device Drivers