Is there a quick way to perform a System Restore in Windows?

Q Is it possible to create a new Restore Point directly from the Windows Desktop? That way, I could easily make a new Restore Point each time I wish to download and install new software.
Mike Pallen

A This is easy to do, but the necessary method is dependent on the version of Windows you have.

In Windows XP, launch Windows Explorer and use it to navigate to the C:\WINDOWS\system32\Restore folder (this assumes that Windows is installed on drive C, obviously).

Now look for a file called ‘rstrui.exe'. Right-click it and, from the pop-up menu, choose Sent To followed by Desktop (create shortcut). The requisite shortcut will now appear on the Windows Desktop.

A different approach is required in Windows Vista and 7. First, right-click on any blank part of the Desktop then select New followed by Shortcut.

Click Browser then use the Browse for Files or Folders dialogue box to navigate to C:\Windows\System32 (again, assuming that Windows is installed on the C drive).

Now look for a file called SystemPropertiesProtection.exe, click once to select it and click OK. Click Next, type a name for the shortcut (such as Create a Restore Point) and click Finish.