Skip to the content
Safety & privacy

How do I create a System Restore point to protect my computer?

You'll be able to: Create a manual System Restore snapshot before making changes so you can roll back your PC if anything breaks

Risk
Safe to try
Windows
Windows 11 · Windows 10

Filed under Safety & privacy

The steps

  1. 1

    Press the Windows key, type restore point, and press Enter or click Create a restore point. The System Properties dialog opens directly on the System Protection tab.

    Start menu search showing Create a restore point control panel result.

    Screenshot on the way. The steps above are complete without it.

    What is a System Restore point?

    A restore point is a saved snapshot of your Windows system files, registry settings, and installed drivers. It lets you undo damaging software changes without affecting your personal photos, documents, or emails.

  2. 2

    Under Protection Settings, ensure your system drive (usually C:) says On. If it is turned off, click Configure, select Turn on system protection, and click OK. System protection is verified as active for your main drive.

  3. 3

    Click the Create... button near the bottom of the window. A small dialog opens asking you to type a description for the restore point.

    System Protection dialog with the Create button and name prompt.

    Screenshot on the way. The steps above are complete without it.

  4. 4

    Type a short memorable name (such as Before Update or today's date) and click Create. A progress bar moves for a few seconds, then confirms that the restore point was created successfully.

  5. It looks different on my screen

    If the Create button is grayed out, click on your C: drive in the list first, then click Configure and choose Turn on system protection to allocate disk space for restore snapshots.

Did this work?

اقرأ بالعربية