System Restore is the feature that allows a computer system to be rolled back, or restored, to a point before certain events took place. For example, prior to specific software or hardware installations. System Restore is a powerful tool that in most cases, should not be disabled unless you are removing Spyware. It is very important to re-enable System Restore after you have removed Spyware.
How To Turn On and Turn Off System Restore In Windows XP
Introduction:
This section describes how to turn on and turn off System Restore in Microsoft Windows XP.
Caution: When you turn off System Restore, all existing restore points are removed, and you are no longer able to track or undo changes to your computer. To continue to use System Restore in restoring your computer to a previous state(meaning an operational state), do not turn off System Restore.
More Information:
By using the System Restore feature, a computer system can be restored (rolled back) to a time before certain events occurred. For example, the computer may be restored to a time before specific software or hardware installations were completed.
System Restore monitors changes to the computer and to some program files, and automatically creates restore points. You can also create your own restore points whenever you want to.
By default, System Restore is turned on in Windows XP. It is a powerful tool that generally should not be turned off.