Will system restore restore files​

System Restore is a feature in Windows operating systems that allows users to revert their computer’s system settings and files to a previous point in time. The question of whether System Restore will restore files is a common one, and the answer is both yes and no, depending on several factors. 

How System Restore Works

System Restore periodically creates restore points, which are snapshots of the system’s configuration and certain files. These restore points include information about the registry, system files, and some application settings. When a user initiates a system restore, the computer reverts to the state it was in at the selected restore point.

The restore process involves replacing the current system files and settings with the versions stored in the restore point. It does this by using a combination of backup files and information stored in the system’s hidden restore point folders.

Types of Files System Restore Can Restore

System Files: System Restore is primarily designed to restore system – related files. These include files that are essential for the proper functioning of the operating system, such as DLL (Dynamic Link Library) files, system drivers, and configuration files. For example, if a faulty driver update causes system instability, System Restore can replace the updated driver with the previous working version from a restore point.

Registry Settings: The Windows registry is a crucial database that stores configuration information for the operating system and installed applications. System Restore can restore the registry to a previous state, which can be useful if incorrect registry entries have been made, perhaps due to a software installation or manual modification that has caused problems.

Some Application Files and Settings: In some cases, System Restore can also restore certain application – related files and settings. This is especially true for applications that store their settings in the registry or in specific system – monitored locations. For example, if an application stops working properly after a system change, System Restore may be able to restore the application’s settings to a previous working state.

Circumstances When System Restore May Not Restore Files

User – Created Data Files: System Restore is not intended to back up or restore user – created data files such as documents, photos, videos, and music. These files are typically stored in the user’s personal folders and are not included in the restore points by default. For example, if a user deletes a important Word document, System Restore will not be able to recover it unless the file was part of a specific application’s data that is being tracked by System Restore, which is rare for typical user documents.

Files Outside the System – Monitored Areas: Files that are stored in locations that are not monitored by System Restore will not be restored. This includes files on external hard drives, removable media, and some non – default installation locations of applications. If a user has installed an application on a different drive partition and the files are not in the system – tracked areas, System Restore will not affect those files.

Files Deleted or Modified After the Restore Point Was Created: System Restore only restores files and settings to the state they were in at the time the restore point was created. If a file has been deleted or modified after the restore point was created, System Restore will not be able to reverse those changes. For example, if a user updates a file and then creates a restore point, and later deletes the file, System Restore will not be able to restore the updated version of the file.

Corrupted or Incomplete Restore Points: If a restore point is corrupted or incomplete, it may not be able to successfully restore all the files and settings. This can happen due to various reasons, such as disk errors, insufficient disk space, or improper shutdowns while the restore point was being created. In such cases, the system may display an error message during the restore process, and the restoration may not be successful.

How to Ensure File Recovery Alongside System Restore

Regular Backups: The best way to ensure the recovery of user – created data files is to perform regular backups. Windows offers several backup options, such as File History, which can be configured to automatically back up important files and folders at regular intervals. Additionally, external backup drives or cloud – based backup services can be used to store copies of files off – site, providing an extra layer of protection against data loss.

Using Restore Point Supplements: Some third – party software applications offer additional features to supplement System Restore. These applications may allow for more granular control over which files are included in restore points or provide enhanced backup and recovery options for specific types of files. However, it’s important to research and choose reliable software to avoid potential conflicts with the system.

Understanding File Management and System Settings: Users should have a basic understanding of how their files are stored and how System Restore works. This includes knowing which files are likely to be affected by system changes and which ones are not. By keeping important data files in known locations and regularly backing them up, users can better protect their data from potential loss during system restore operations or other system – related issues.