Launch System Restore from a command prompt in Windows XP

by Greg Shultz | Dec 06, 2006 8:00:00 AM

Tags: Operating systems, Greg Shultz, Microsoft Windows XP, Microsoft Windows, system restore, Windows XP Tips Newsletter

Takeaway: It's not unusual to use System Restore to fix strange Windows XP system behavior—but depending on how damaged your system seems to be, you may need to call for more advanced measures. Here's how to launch System Restore from a command prompt.

If your Windows XP system begins acting strange, a typical fix is to use System Restore to remove any system changes made since the last time you created a Restore Point. However, what if the problem is so bad that you can't start Windows XP normally, or even start the system in Safe Mode?

The good news is you can run System Restore from a command prompt. Here's how:

1. Restart your computer and press [F8] during the initial startup.
2. When you see the Windows Advanced Options Menu, select the Safe Mode with a Command Prompt option.
3. Select the Windows XP operating system.
4. Log on to your computer with an administrator account or with an account that has administrator credentials.
5. Type the following command at a command prompt:
   C:\windows\system32\restore\rstrui.exe

When you see the System Restore window, the graphics may look odd, but you can still follow the onscreen instructions to restore your computer to an earlier state.

Note: This tip applies to both Windows XP Home and Windows XP Professional.

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