When you start using an XP computer, you may be completely unaware of this great utility. The System Restore function runs silently in the background. Access to this useful utility is hidden away inside a nested menu (Start-All Programs-Accessories-System Tools-System Restore). System Restore was introduced in Windows Me but Windows XP improves the System Restore function and makes it even more useful.

When you have a serious problem, System Restore can be used to return your computer to a time when it was working properly. An XP computer automatically creates restore points at regularly scheduled times. To create a restore point, System Restore takes a snapshot of the registry and the dynamic system files that are necessary to do the restore. When you need to use System Restore you simply click on Start--All Programs--Accessories--System Tools--System Restore. Then the System Restore wizard walks you through the restore process. You are asked to choose a restore point. The dates and times you can choose from are shown on a calendar. You choose the most recent time when you know your computer was working properly. Then you follow the prompts and the computer will automatically restart in the state that it was in on the chosen date at the chosen time.

Don't worry, even though you revert your computer to a previous time, you will not lose documents, favorites, or e-mail messages that were created after that time. The only caveat is that you may have to reinstall any programs that were installed after the restore time. System Restore is completely reversible. So if you have a problem with the restore point you can reverse the restore you just performed.

System Restore is one smart utility. It automatically creates restore points before new device drivers, automatic updates, and unsigned drivers are installed. You can also create your own restore points. For instance, you are about to install some shareware program that you know nothing about. Just create a system restore point before you install the program. (Access the System Restore menu and choose "Create a Restore Point".)Then install and try the program, being confident that if anything is screwed up in your computer, you can simply uninstall the program and call upon the System Restore utility to quickly and easily revert your computer to the more stable time before you installed the troublesome program. For more information on the System Restore utility visit the Microsoft Web site and type "System Restore" into the search box. Even if you think you may never need to use the System Restore function, it's good to know that it is there waiting to get you out of trouble.

Berger welcomes all your questions and comments on this column. Please post them at the Compu-KISS Message Board at www.compukiss.com/