How to Perform a System Restore

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When your computer starts acting up due to a misbehaving app, a faulty driver, or a recent update that just didn’t sit right, System Restore can be a lifesaver on Windows. And while Macs are known for their reliability, there are times when a factory reset is the best way to refresh your system. Read on for an easy-to-follow guide on how System Restore works on Windows 10/11 and how to reset your Mac if needed.

What Is System Restore?

System Restore is a built-in Windows feature that lets you revert your computer’s system files, settings, and drivers to a previous state—called a restore point—when everything was working correctly. Windows automatically creates these snapshots (typically once a week or before major events like installing new drivers or updates). If something goes wrong, you can roll back to an earlier, stable configuration.

Important: System Restore only affects system files and certain settings. It does not touch your personal files. Be sure to have a separate backup for documents, photos, and other personal data.

How System Restore Works

Snapshot Creation:
Windows periodically saves a snapshot of system files, registry settings, and drivers. You can also manually create a restore point anytime before making major changes.

Rollback Process:
If a new driver or update causes issues, you can launch System Restore and select a restore point from when your computer was running well. Windows will reinstate those settings, potentially undoing the problem.

Apps and Programs:
Any programs installed after the selected restore point will be removed. Some apps might not work properly until reinstalled. It is a good idea to create a manual restore point before any big changes.

Setting Up System Restore on Windows 10 & 11

Enabling System Restore for Your Drives

Access System Protection:

• Click the Start button, type "restore", and select "Create a restore point."

Configure Protection Settings:

In the System Protection tab, you will see a list of drives and whether protection is enabled.

• To enable it, select a drive (usually the C drive), click "Configure," choose "Turn on system protection," and adjust the Max Usage slider to determine how much disk space to allocate.

Finish:

• Click "OK" to save your settings. Windows will now automatically create restore points for that drive.

Creating and Using Restore Points

How to Create a Restore Point Manually

1. Open System Protection (as described above).
2. Click the "Create" button under the System Protection tab.
3. Give your restore point a clear name that reminds you of why you created it, then click "Create."
4. Wait for the process to finish (usually about 30 seconds).

How to Restore Your System

Start the Process:

• Return to System Protection and click the "System Restore" button.

Select a Restore Point:

• The wizard will display available restore points. Choose the most recent one that predates the issue.

Review Affected Programs:

• Windows will list apps and drivers that might be removed or restored. Review this list to ensure nothing critical is lost.

Confirm and Restart:

• Once satisfied, click "Next" and then "Finish." Your computer will restart, and System Restore will revert your system to the chosen state.

Timeframe:

• Depending on your system’s speed, the process may take from 10 minutes to over 20 minutes.
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Alternative Ways to Access System Restore

Command Prompt or PowerShell:
Type "rstrui" into your command line to launch System Restore (useful if you are already in Safe Mode).

Control Panel:
Change the view to large or small icons, select "Recovery," and then choose System Restore.

Run Prompt or Task Manager:
Open the Run box (Windows + R), type "rstrui," and hit Enter.

Note: If your system is not booting normally, try booting into Safe Mode, where you can also run System Restore.

What System Restore Can’t Do

Not a Backup for Personal Files:
System Restore focuses solely on system files and settings. It will not recover your documents, photos, or music. Always use a dedicated backup solution for personal data.

Not a Virus Removal Tool:
Because malware can embed itself in various system areas, System Restore is not effective for virus removal. Use updated antivirus software to handle infections.

Resetting Your Mac: When a Factory Reset Is Needed

While Macs are generally robust, sometimes issues arise that are best solved by wiping the slate clean. Whether you are preparing your Mac for a new owner or trying to resolve persistent problems, a factory reset can help.

Using Erase Assistant (macOS Monterey and Later)

Open System Settings:

• On a Mac running macOS Monterey or later (including Apple Silicon Macs), go to System Settings > General > Transfer or Reset.

Erase All Content:

• Click "Erase All Content and Settings" and follow the on-screen instructions.
• You will be prompted to enter your admin password. The tool will sign you out of iCloud, delete Touch ID data, and perform other security measures.

Final Backup Reminder:

• Before proceeding, ensure you have a Time Machine backup or have synced your important files to iCloud. Once the reset is complete, data recovery is not possible.

Using Disk Utility for a Clean Reinstall

Enter macOS Recovery:

• For Apple Silicon or Intel Macs with a T2 chip: Shut down your Mac, then hold the power button until startup options appear and select "Options."
• For Intel Macs without T2: Restart and hold Command + R until the Apple logo appears.

Open Disk Utility:

• In the recovery screen, select Disk Utility and choose your main drive (typically "Macintosh HD").

Erase and Reinstall:

• Click "Erase," confirm the drive name and format (APFS or Mac OS Extended), and then exit Disk Utility.
• Return to the recovery screen and choose "Reinstall macOS." Follow the instructions to install a fresh copy of the operating system.

Restore Your Data:

• Once the installation is complete, use Migration Assistant to restore data from a Time Machine backup if desired.

The Bottom Line

System Restore on Windows and factory resetting on Mac are powerful tools that can help resolve system problems without the need for costly repairs or complete overhauls. However, these tools are not meant to replace regular backups of your personal files.

At BPM Tech Solutions, we are here to guide you through these processes and ensure your systems run smoothly and securely. If you need assistance with System Restore, resetting your Mac, or setting up a robust backup strategy, do not hesitate to contact us.

Happy troubleshooting, and here is to a faster, healthier computer.