Windows restore point? Disk Clean Up?

Question

What is windows restore point, how do you use it is is the same as back up your files to a disc?
Also under disk clean up you can delete your restore point, what does that do?
I need a thorough answer no half A*s answers, or wiki, if you want to provide a link fine but add little of your say please
Thank You

Answer 1

A restore point is a backup of the entire registry at the point in time that it's made - that's all the details. It doesn't back up Windows, your data, programs or anything else - just the registry. (Restoring doesn't remove viruses either.) Its only purpose is to restore the registry if installing a program messes it up. Deleting a restore point just means that you can't restore the registry to the state it was at the time that backup was made.

Answer 2

I can only speak for XP, but think all versions work on the same basics. Use System Restore to undo changes if problems occur.



Windows XP periodically records a snapshot of your computer. These snapshots are called restore points. Windows XP also creates restore points at the time of significant system events (such as when an application or driver is installed) or you can create and name your own restore points at any time. If you have installed a program that has made your computer unstable, you can open system restore, choose a restore point, and return your computer to its previous stable state.



When you run System Restore, a calendar is displayed to help you find restore points. If you don't use your computer every day, some days might not have any restore points. If you use your computer frequently, you might have restore points almost every day, and some days might have several restore points.



This comes also into play if you do a "disk clean up" and/or play with your root directory - first create a new "Restore Point".



See the link for more.

Answer 3

Windows restore point is created by XP or Vista when you make a critical change to your computer, such as installing a new program or updates. You can also choose to create your own restore points.

The restore point only restores the Windows system files. It does not back up or restore your personal files.

If you choose to delete a restore point, it simply removes it from your computer, eliminating the ability to restore the operating system to that specific point.

Answer 4

If you're walking XP Pro and feature the disk, you'll be able to do a “Repair Installation.” It will keep your whole information and exchange the crucial working records that you just inadvertently deleted. Set your BIOS besides out of your optical force, insert your Disc and reboot your pc. It will boot from the install disk, simply comply with the directions till you're ask what form of install you wish. Choose “Repair Installation” and your issues will all be solved while the install finishes. I don’t recognise if this option is to be had on XP Home, however you'll be able to assess.

Answer 5

Restore point will remove everything after that point other then personal files. I don't suggest deleting the ALL restore points, just the ones you don't need. Meaning previous ones that you know you won't need.