English Article: How to Fix “System Restore Not Working” in Windows 10 [2025 Guide]

Infographic showing how to fix "System Restore Not Working" in Windows 10, with step-by-step instructions and a laptop screen displaying a system error warning.

Have you ever tried using System Restore in Windows 10—only to find out it doesn’t work?

Maybe the restore point is missing, or the process fails halfway through. If you’re relying on System Restore to fix a problem, this can be frustrating.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to use System Restore the right way, and what to do when it doesn’t work. We’ll also cover recent changes as of 2025, including tips for SSD users and BitLocker security.

目次

What is System Restore?

System Restore lets you roll back your system files and settings to an earlier point in time. It’s a handy way to fix problems caused by updates, drivers, or app installs.

  • Personal files (documents, pictures, etc.) are not affected
  • You need a restore point to use this feature
  • Restore points are not always created automatically

So when System Restore doesn’t work, the first thing to check is whether a restore point actually exists.

How to Run System Restore (Standard Method)

Step 1: Press Windows + R, type sysdm.cpl, and click OK.

Step 2: In the System Properties window, go to the System Protection tab.

Step 3: Click System Restore → select a restore point → click Next → Finish.

Step 4: Your PC will restart and begin the restore process automatically.

What If System Restore Doesn’t Work?

1. No Restore Points Found

Solution: System Protection might be disabled.

  • Open sysdm.cpl again and go to the System Protection tab
  • Check if Protection is set to On for your system drive (usually C:)
  • If not, click Configure and select “Turn on system protection”
  • Set disk space usage to 5–10% and click OK

Once enabled, you can manually create a restore point by clicking the Create button.

2. Restore Fails or Freezes Midway

Solution: Try running System Restore in Safe Mode.

  • Go to: Settings → Update & Security → Recovery → Advanced Startup → Restart Now
  • Choose: Troubleshoot → Advanced Options → Startup Settings
  • Restart in Safe Mode, then run System Restore again

3. Errors After Restoring

Solution: Use the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).

  • Force shutdown the PC three times (hold the power button)
  • Choose: Advanced Options → System Restore

4. Problems on SSD Devices

On some SSDs, Windows System Restore may fail due to TRIM optimization or disk management settings.

Solution: Temporarily disable any “disk cleanup” or “optimization” features, and consider using the classic Backup and Restore (Windows 7) option instead.

Last Resort: Reset This PC

If System Restore still fails, you can reset Windows 10 to its default state.
Go to: Settings → System → Recovery
Under Reset this PC, click Get Started
Choose either Keep my files or Remove everything

⚠️ Note: If BitLocker is enabled, you may be asked for your recovery key after reset. Make sure it’s backed up to your Microsoft account.

BitLocker Recovery Info: Microsoft Support: Find Your Recovery Key

Back Up Your Data with an External Drive

System Restore isn’t a full backup solution. To avoid data loss, regularly back up your important files to an external SSD or USB stick. It’s especially helpful for SSD users who experience unstable restore behavior.

▶ Recommended External SSDs/USB (Amazon)

This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Important Notes for 2025

  • Restore points may not be created automatically after Windows Updates
  • Old third-party antivirus tools may block System Restore
  • BitLocker protection requires recovery key after restore/reset
  • SSD users may have better results with full backup solutions

Because of these issues, creating restore points manually and performing regular backups are now more important than ever. In 2025, System Restore is still useful—but it’s not enough on its own.

Conclusion

  • System Restore is a helpful tool—but it often fails if not configured properly
  • Check protection settings and always verify restore points exist
  • Use Safe Mode or WinRE when problems occur
  • Use external backups and BitLocker precautions to stay safe

Set up your PC today, so you won’t regret it tomorrow.

✔️You might also find these helpful:

▶︎Can You Skip the “OK” After Face Recognition in Windows Hello? Full Guide

▶︎WUUAUSERV Causing Windows Update to Freeze? How to Diagnose and Fix It via Event Viewer

▶︎Fix Bluetooth Turning Off After Every Restart on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

💡 Looking for more tips? Check out our full list of Windows Help Guides.

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