System Restore Troubleshooting for Windows XP

pac_admin Wed May 27, 2009 12:06 pm

Question:

I can manually create a restore point or let it make its own. In either case, I am not able to restore the computer to any of the restore points created. I always receive a message that says the restore could not be completed. Is there anything I can do to fix this problem or am I faced with a reinstallation of the operating system?

Answer:

Below, you will find some System Restore troubleshooting tips to help you successfully restore your computer.

1) If you receive an error message when trying to use the System Restore tool, be sure to make a note of the error message and follow any contained instructions. Most of the errors will give a description of the error and instructions to help you resolve the issue.

2) Be sure that you have plenty of disk space available where your System Restore tool is enabled.

3) Be sure that the System Restore tool is actually running. here's how you can tell:

A. Go to Start>> Run. Type in: compmgmt.msc [Enter] or click OK
B. In the Computer Management window, expand the Services and Applications category.
C. Click Services
D. Scroll the right pane until you see System Restore Service listed. be sure that it says "Started". If it says "Stopped", then you will need to double click the entry and click the "Start" button to start the System Restore Service.

4) Try running System Restore in Safe Mode.

5) Try viewing the event logs to determine a probable cause of the error. here's how:

A. Go to Start>> Control Panel
B. Select Administrative Tools
C. Click on Computer Management
D. Expand Event Viewer
E. Select System

When viewing the event logs, it will make it easier to click the "Source" tab to sort the events by name. You will then be looking for errors named "sr" or "srservice". Once you have identified the logs, you can double click the log to view a description of the error and a possible resolution.