You can use Windows System Restore to create restore points or snapshots that you can use to restore your computer back to a specific date or time if you encounter any issues. You can use this feature to undo unwanted system changes. This can be useful anytime you download and install Windows Updates, make registry changes or encounter unexpected software or driver errors.
This process will not affect any personal files, but will remove other programs that were installed after the restore point was made such as updates, drivers and apps. System Restore is not turned on by default, so you will need to enable this function before you can create a system restore point.
How to enable system restore in Windows 11
- Click on the Magnifying Glass 🔍 in the taskbar.
- Type System Restore in the Search bar and select Create a Restore Point.
- In the Protection Settings section, select the main System drive or the drive of your choice.
- Select Configure.
- Select Turn on system protection.
- Use the Max Usage slider to determine how much space should be used for system restore points.
- Select Apply.
- Select OK. Windows will automatically create a restore point during the next system update.
How to create a system restore point in Windows 11
- Click on the Magnifying Glass 🔍 in the taskbar.
- Type System Restore in the Search bar and select Create a Restore Point.
- In the Protection settings section, select Create.
- Enter a description for the restore point and select Create.
- Select Close.
- Select OK.
How to perform a system restore in Windows 11
- Click on the Magnifying Glass 🔍 in the taskbar.
- Type System Restore in the Search bar and select Create a Restore Point.
- Select System Restore.
- Click on Next.
- Choose a system restore point from the list.
- Click on Next.
- Select Finish.
How long does a system restore take?
A system restore will usually take less 25-30 minutes in most cases. If your system restore is not completed after an hour then it is likely that the process has frozen, in which case you should run a Startup repair.
