What does System Restore really do?

[Questi4110]

i want to know what windows xp system restore really does
does it change file...if so...where?
please be specific


THANKS

 

[Compellor]

It restores a previous Windows XP config from what's called a "restore point." What it's basically for is if you install a program or new hardware device, and for some reason you get some kind of serious error or problem, you can use the restore feature to go "back in time" to a previous config. It creates a hidden folder called "System Volume Information" and inside that folder you will find different "restore point" folders. This can eat up valuable hard drive space over time, but you can configure it to use less.

 

[Questi4110]

yes i know that but what does it really do when i restores...go back to old files and registry or leave them untouched...more psecific please

 

[corkyg]

Basically it goes back and grabs the Registry saved at the restore point and reboots with it. That negates any software setup changes made after that. It does not delete any new files you might have installed. New programs therefore, (possibly the ones that caused your problem) are not registered and can be deleted without further ado.

It is not revolutionary . . . ME had it. A commercial program from New Zealand called "GoBack" essentially does the same thing. I have used Restore a few times and it really works. Once in a while you run into software that insists on screwing up your system (such as AOL 7.0) and it is a quick fix.

 

[CrowDog]

The few times Ive had a problem serious enough to use it....it didnt work. Im using XP pro and the is a midi player called Yamaha XG that will completley destroy an XP install and make it unsaveable...must reformat. Another couple times I used it for less serious stuff but stilll had to reformat because restore didnt work.