Windows

Restore Windows to an earlier point (System Restore)

Undo a bad driver, app or update with Windows System Restore. Step-by-step, what it keeps and removes, and what to do if it fails.

Difficulty: Easy
Time: 15-45 min
Steps: 7
Updated: 2026-10-19

Sounds like this?

Problems started after installing an app, driver or update
Settings or apps broke suddenly
PC was fine yesterday

Step by step

Press Start, type Create a restore point and open it.
Click System Restore... then Next.
Pick a restore point dated before the problem started. Click Scan for affected programs to see what will be removed.
Click Next › Finish and let the PC restart. It can take 15-30 minutes. Do not turn it off.
If Windows won't load, reach the same tool from Windows Recovery: Troubleshoot › Advanced options › System Restore.
After it finishes, reinstall any apps you still need from their official sites.
To protect yourself next time: in the System Protection tab, make sure protection is On for drive C:.

Related error codes & messages

Quick answers

When should I stop and get professional help with "Restore Windows to an earlier point (System Restore)"?

Stop and get help if: There are no restore points listed (protection was off). Restore fails with an error more than once. The problem returns right away. It may be hardware or malware, not settings. Boise Computer Care can diagnose it for a $60 fee; call 208-996-3508.

How long does this fix take and how hard is it?

Plan on 15-45 min. Difficulty: Easy.

Is it safe to try this myself?

Mostly, if you follow these precautions: System Restore does not touch your documents and photos, but it removes apps and drivers installed after the restore point. Plug laptops into power so the restore is not interrupted. System Restore is not a backup. Keep a real backup of your files too.

Which error messages or codes does this guide cover?

0x80070005, 0x8000ffff, System Restore did not complete successfully.

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