Create a System Restore Point - Safeguard Your System - Computers

Before attempting any system optimization, whether it's memory upgrades or software configuration, it would be a good idea to create a System Restore Point. Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7 all create restore points automatically but it doesn't hurt to manually create one just prior to installing or uninstalling hardware or software, or before making changes to any system configuration settings.

Basically a restore point allows you to do exactly what the name implies. Using the restore point you can 'restore' or revert your computer back to a specific date and time. Thus, if something goes horribly wrong during the installation of a new software application let's say, and your system is now not functioning properly, you can attempt to restore back to the good state that existed just prior to the software installation. This is of course assuming that a restore point exists for that date and time. Windows is supposed to automatically create one before all hardware and software installations. I never like to take chances however so my belief is that it does not hurt to create one manually before installing any new software or hardware.

Having a restore point is great insurance however using the restore point can sometimes create unintended consequences. Reverting the entire system back to a earlier date and time requires quite extensive changes to the registry settings as well as significant modification of stored data files. I point this out only as a cautionary note. Use this feature as a last resort.

The most basic yet many times overlooked technique to address either software installation problems or hardware installation problems is simply rebooting the system. Sometimes more than once. Also if you are experiencing a software installation error try uninstalling the software before you use a system restore. The Add or Remove Programs tool is located in the control panel (in Windows Vista and Windows 7 you will need to click 'Programs' and then 'Installed Programs').

If your system is not booting properly you can also try using the boot menu that is available during the system startup process. To access it press F8 while the system tries to reboot (you may have to tap the key multiple times as the system powers back up) and then use your arrow keys to select 'Last Known Good Configuration', this works in many cases.

Manually Creating a Restore Point (Windows XP)

Manually Creating a Restore Point (Windows Vista & Windows 7)

Now that you have completed this process you can add new software or hardware with a little more confidence.

I own a Computer Repair and Data Recovery business in San Antonio, TX. I spent 10 years in database development and the past seven mainly repairing and servicing hardware. However, I am now also offering Website Development, Internet Marketing, SEO, and Hosting.

San Antonio Computer RepairSan Antonio Data RecoverySan Antonio Website Design