system restore not working

[zingo1327]

I'm having problems so decided to use system restore but no matter which restore point I choose the message says that it can't restore my computer to that time/point. Any help welcome.
ps System restore is enabled

[johntywino]

Iv'e had exactly the same problem for over a year and couldn't sort it....Now I use factory reset (takes it back to new).

[Dodger666]

Read this and see if it helps:-

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/302796

[zingo1327]

Hi guys. I followed the link and all seems to be as it should. I tried as suggested using system restore in safe start up mode but it also failed.It gets about 1/2 way across the progress bar then skips to the end.
If I use factory reset will I lose all the programs and files I've loaded up or created since I bought the computer and how do I access factory reset?
thank you in advance

[rojash]

"If I use factory reset will I lose all the programs and files I've loaded up or created since I bought the computer"

Yes, plus all the updates that have been downloaded for Windows and any other software you have.

"and how do I access factory reset?"
That depends on the computer manufacturer. It may not even be an option.

System restore is not a magic cure-all for problems with your computer. It should really only be used if, after an update or software installation, a problem occurs which seems to be as a direct result.

You'd be better off, posting descriptions of your problems, together with any other relevant information (such as OS version, make and model of computer, browser version, etc) and getting the problems sorted properly.

[methyl]

I agree with rogash 100%. There are uninformed posters recommending Microsoft System Restore for any problem. I have never found a problem where running a Microsoft System Restore actually fixed the fault. Removing bad Microsoft Updates selectively through "Add/Remove Programs" has fixed many a fault.
What is your fault?

[zingo1327]

The problem is that if i leave the computer unattended for 15 minutes or so (no mouse movement) it freezes and I have to reboot.Any downloads keep downloading but the icons on desktop disappear and nothing happens clicking on the start button.Power sources are set to never shut down monitor or hard drive and never stand-by. I've run all virus checks and it comes up clean. Help

[galeck1947]

You haven't stated what OS you have ? You can run a repair on Windows using your Windows installation disc but without knowing your OS it is hard to explain how to do this.

[zingo1327]

hi, it's windows xp pro