Windows XP update is needed to make a computer run up with the latest hardware drivers and security software patches. The same helpful software could also sometimes break your computer system. The symptoms for a system update going awry ranges from desktop settings reset, unable to detect devices, and worst to failure to boot.

That’s why I think it is best to set Windows XP updates automatically downloaded, but manually installed. That is a fine and sound setting until someone sits on your computer. How about when someone touched the computer and installed the system updates while you’re away from the keyboard. That’s what happened to a friend’s laptop computer running Windows XP.

Fortunately, Windows XP was still bootable, but the desktop settings are reset back to the default light blue screen. Worst is the Vodafone USB Modem Stick was not detected when plugged in. The usb modem normally gets the laptop quick and easy access to the Internet without any trouble. Since, it’s not detected, software re-installation could not be done also.

Windows XP System Restore regularly create and save restore points of a computer system whenever it’s turned on. Thus, it could restore registry settings and other system file information at an earlier date that Windows XP is using.

Don’t be afraid of newer personal data files being lost during recovery as System Restore does not touch those files. It will only affect the system as the name indicates. A regular data backup of personal files should be done separately with some data backup software.

Steps on restoring system with Windows XP System Restore:

• click Start
• click Programs
• click Accessories
• click System Tools
• click System Restore

Follow the instructions there on. Note that Administrator permission is required to do system restore. After restoring to an earlier date Windows XP System Restore would reboot the computer automatically to have the settings take effect. System Restore have recovered successfully the corrupted Windows XP desktop and software settings.