There are times that Windows XP has corrupt files or a program has been installed that causes the operating system to crash. Windows XP introduced the System Restore function that allows the system to be restored back to an original configuration before the application or the system corruption has taken place. Data files such as documents, spreadsheets, presentations etc are not effected and not changed by System Restore. Applications that installed before a restore point may have to be reinstalled.

Preliminary Step: Windows XP must have the System Restore function activated before the system will create Restore Points Windows XP is installed with this ability activated, but most computer manufacturers turn off this feature.

1. Right Click My Computer and select Properties.
2. Select the System Restore tab.
3. Uncheck Turn off System Restore and adjust how much space you wish to devote to system restore. Windows XP by default uses the maximum amount of space for System Restore.

Performing System Restore:

1. If the system can boot in normal mode select Start > Programs or All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > System Restore.
2. The System restore wizard is launched asking if you wish to create a system restore point or restore from a previous system restore point. Select Restore from a previous system restore point or Restore to an earlier time.
3. The restore wizard will display a calendar showing the different restore points created within that month. It is best practice to restore from a point either a week before or the last time that the system performed correctly. Click Next and the System restore wizard will begin restoring the system.
4. If System restore cannot restore the system an error message will appear stating that the system cannot restore the system and it will return it back to state that you started system restore. Otherwise System restore will continue and request that the system be restarted.
5. After the system is restarted, System Restore will display a status bar on how far the system is restored. Once the system is restored, Windows XP will start.
6. Check the functionality of the system. Make sure that the system is operating correctly.
7. If this does not solve the problem, System restore can restore the system back to either the original state before you started System Restore, or to another point.