Well, you use System Restore
System Restore is utility that comes with Windows XP that lets you restore your computer to a previous state. If a problem occurs, you can restore your computer (PC) without losing your data files (such as Word documents). System Restore monitors your system changes and then automatically creates restore points from time to time. These restore points are the state to which your system can return. Your computer reverts back to the time when the restore point was created.
Besides system created restore points, you can also create your own restore point, which can come handy at times. Lets take an example, you want to update your device drivers. First create a restore point(if System Restore is turned off). Then update the drivers, if everything goes ok, delete the restore point because you no longer need it or you can keep it. If everything doesnot goes ok and your computer becomes unstable, then restore to the restore point you had created before updating drivers, and the files will be reverted back. Your computer will become stable. See, it can really come in handy.
When is a restore point created?
- Every time you install a new software ( because it may create conflict with other applications )- Before updating or installing a device driver. - Updating device drivers - link. Tips and tricks.
When should you create a restore point?
- When you make changes to system settings.( in case later the system becomes unstable and you doesn't know to restore previous settings )
Windows does not start - (the logon screen does not appear,log on to safe mode and restore from there) troubleshooting
However, System Restore does not replace the process of uninstalling a program. To completely remove the files installed by a program, you must remove the program using Add or Remove Programs in Control Panel or the program's own uninstall program.
Manually creating a restore point.
1. Go to Start->Accessories->System Tools->System Restore.
2. Select Create a restore point and Click Next.
3. Enter restore point description like "Installing Microsoft Office".
4. Click Create and it will be created.
Restoring the computer to a previous state.
1. Go to Start->Accessories->System Tools->System Restore.
2. Select Restore my computer to an earlier time and Click Next.
3. Choose the date and then the restore point.
4. Follow the instructions.
Managing System Restore Settings.
1. Go to Start->Accessories->System Tools->System Restore.
2. Click System Restore Settings.
3. To turn off on all drives, Check Turn off System on all drives to turn off and uncheck to turn on the System Restore.
4. For any particular drive, Select that drive , Click Settings, Check Turn off System on this drive to turn off and uncheck to turn on the System Restore.
5. Here You can also manage the disk space allocated for System Restore for each drive as well.
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