System Restore is a Windows XP service that runs in the background, continually monitoring changes in files, folders, and settings that are essential to the correct operation of the operating system. At regular intervals, System Restore takes a "snapshot" of your system’s registry as well. If you encounter a problem that causes Windows to become unstable, you can start the System Restore Wizard in normal or Safe Mode and roll back your system files and registry to those saved from a previous date— when, presumably, your system worked properly. System Restore can’t perform miracles, but it can be a lifesaver in the following situations: * You install a program that conflicts with other software or drivers on your system. If uninstalling the program doesn’t cure the problem, you can restore your system configuration to a point before you installed the program. * You install one or more updated drivers that cause performance or stability problems. Rather than using the Driver Rollback feature from Device Manager, use System Restore to restore all previously installed drivers. * Your system developed performance or stability problems for no apparent reason. This scenario is especially likely if you share a computer with other family members or coworkers who casually install untested, incompatible software and drivers. If you know the system was working properly on a certain date, you can use a restore point from that date or earlier and be reasonably confident that your system will return to proper operation. CAUTION: You cannot count on System Restore to protect you from viruses, worms, Trojan horse programs, and other malware. In fact, if your system contracts a virus, files stored in restore points created after that point might be infected also, and you run the risk of restoring the virus along with your system files. Use a reliable antivirus program, keep it up-to-date, and don’t open e-mail attachments unless you’re certain they’re safe. Don’t rely on System Restore to protect you from data loss or backup mistakes. Restoring a backed-up configuration can undo damage only to your Windows system files; a restore point does not protect data files. If you inadvertently delete working data files or overwrite them with out-of-date backup copies, you will not be able to recover your data files unless you have a recent backup set. If you would like more information about System Restore, contact me off list. Hope this is of some help. Art