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How to Fix System Restore Not Working from Boot in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

System Restore is a useful feature in Windows 11 that helps you revert your computer to a previous state when things go wrong. However, sometimes System Restore may not work when you try to access it from boot. This can be frustrating, especially if you need to fix critical issues.

In this guide, we will walk you through simple and clear steps to fix System Restore not working from boot in Windows 11. Each step is explained in detail so even beginners can follow along easily.

By the end of this article, you should be able to troubleshoot and resolve most common problems preventing System Restore from working during startup. Let’s get started.

Remember, taking a methodical approach will help you fix the issue without causing additional problems.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

Before diving into advanced fixes, ensure the following:

  • Power Source: Your PC should be connected to a reliable power source to avoid interruptions during the restore process.
  • System Restore Points: Confirm that there are existing restore points available. Without restore points, System Restore cannot work.
  • Safe Mode Access: Ensure you can access Safe Mode or the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). This is important for some troubleshooting steps.
  • Backup Important Files: Although System Restore doesn’t affect your personal files, it’s a good habit to back up important data before proceeding.

Step 1: Check for Existing Restore Points

The first step is to verify whether any restore points exist. Without restore points, System Restore cannot revert your system.

  1. Boot into Windows normally or access Safe Mode if you cannot start Windows.
  2. Press Windows + S and type Create a restore point, then press Enter.
  3. In the System Properties window, click on the System Restore button.
  4. Click Next to see if any restore points are listed.

If no restore points are available, System Restore will not work. You can create new restore points once your system is running normally again.

Step 2: Enable System Restore in Safe Mode

Sometimes, System Restore is disabled or corrupted, which can prevent it from working at boot. Enabling it in Safe Mode can help fix this.

  1. Restart your PC and press Shift + F8 or use recovery options to enter Safe Mode.
  2. Once in Safe Mode, press Windows + S, type System Protection, and open Create a restore point.
  3. Select your system drive (usually C:), then click Configure.
  4. Ensure Turn on system protection is selected.
  5. Click Apply and then OK.

By enabling System Restore, you allow Windows to create and access restore points properly.

Step 3: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Tools

Corrupted system files can block System Restore from working. Running built-in repair tools can fix these files.

  1. Boot into Safe Mode or Windows Recovery Environment.
  2. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
  3. Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

This command scans for corrupted system files and attempts to repair them.

  1. After SFC completes, run the following DISM command:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

DISM repairs the system image, which can fix underlying issues affecting System Restore.

Step 4: Check and Restart Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS)

The Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS) creates snapshots used by System Restore. If this service is not running, System Restore will fail.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
net stop vss
net start vss

This will restart the VSS service. You can also check its status by typing:

sc query vss

Make sure the service status shows as RUNNING.

Step 5: Use Command Prompt to Run System Restore Manually

If System Restore from the boot menu is not working, you can try running it manually via Command Prompt in the Recovery Environment.

  1. Boot your PC and enter Windows Recovery Environment (usually by interrupting startup 3 times or using a recovery USB).
  2. Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.
  3. In Command Prompt, type:
rstrui.exe

This will open the System Restore wizard. Follow the prompts to select a restore point and restore your system.

Alternative Method: Perform a System Reset

If System Restore still doesn’t work, you can consider performing a system reset. This reinstalls Windows while giving you the option to keep your files.

  1. Enter Windows Recovery Environment.
  2. Choose Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
  3. Choose either Keep my files or Remove everything based on your preference.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.

This method should be used as a last resort as it can take time and may require reinstalling some apps.

FAQs

Why is System Restore not working from boot?

System Restore may fail due to corrupted system files, disabled System Protection, missing restore points, or problems with the Volume Shadow Copy Service.

Can I restore my system if no restore points are available?

No, System Restore requires existing restore points. Without them, you cannot revert your system to an earlier state.

Is System Restore safe to use?

Yes, System Restore only affects system files and settings. It does not delete personal files or documents.

What is the difference between System Restore and Reset this PC?

System Restore reverts system files to a previous point without affecting your files. Reset this PC reinstalls Windows and can remove your files and apps depending on the option chosen.

How often does Windows 11 create restore points?

Windows usually creates restore points automatically before major updates or system changes. You can also create them manually.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, consider these final options:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support page for specialized help.
  • Use a Bootable USB Drive: Create a Windows 11 installation media to repair or reinstall Windows.
  • Consult a Professional: If you are uncomfortable performing advanced troubleshooting, seek help from a certified technician.

Conclusion

System Restore is a valuable tool for fixing system issues, but it can sometimes fail during boot due to various reasons. By following the steps from checking restore points, enabling System Restore, repairing system files, to restarting necessary services, you can often fix the problem yourself.

If manual fixes don’t work, using the System Reset or contacting official support can help you restore your system to working condition. Always remember to keep backups and create restore points regularly to avoid future headaches.

With patience and careful troubleshooting, you can get your Windows 11 System Restore working again and keep your PC safe.

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