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How to Fix System Restore Failed to Extract the File Error on Windows 11: Complete Troubleshooting Steps

System Restore is a helpful feature in Windows 11 that allows you to revert your computer to a previous state. Sometimes, however, you might encounter an error saying “System Restore failed to extract the file.” This can be frustrating if you need to recover your system quickly.

This error often occurs due to corrupted system files, permission issues, or interference from antivirus programs. Fortunately, there are several straightforward ways to fix it.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple and detailed troubleshooting steps. Whether you are a beginner or have some technical knowledge, these instructions will help you resolve the issue.

By following these steps, you can restore your system safely without losing your important data.

Quick Note Before You Begin

  • Make sure you have administrator rights on your PC, as many fixes require elevated permissions.
  • Temporarily disable any third-party antivirus software, as it may block System Restore from working properly.
  • Check if your system drive (usually C:) has enough free space, since System Restore needs room to operate.
  • Create a backup of your important files before proceeding, just in case something goes wrong.

Step 1: Run System File Checker (SFC) Scan

Corrupt system files are a common cause of the extraction error during System Restore. Running the System File Checker tool can help repair these files.

  1. Press Windows + S to open the search bar and type cmd.
  2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. In the command window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  4. Wait patiently while Windows scans and repairs corrupted system files. This may take several minutes.
  5. Once complete, restart your computer and try running System Restore again.

This tool is important because it automatically detects and fixes missing or damaged Windows files that can prevent System Restore from working correctly.

Step 2: Use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) Tool

If the SFC scan doesn’t fix the problem, the DISM tool can repair the Windows image, which is essential for System Restore.

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator again.
  2. Type the following commands one at a time, pressing Enter after each:
    3. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  3. These commands check for and fix corruption in the Windows system image.
  4. Wait for each command to complete before entering the next.
  5. Restart your PC once finished and attempt System Restore again.

Using DISM is crucial because it repairs the underlying Windows image, which affects many system functions, including System Restore.

Step 3: Check and Adjust Permissions on the System Volume Information Folder

System Restore uses a hidden folder called System Volume Information to store restore points. If permissions are incorrect, it may cause extraction errors.

  1. Open File Explorer and go to your system drive (usually C:).
  2. Click on the View tab and check Hidden items to make hidden folders visible.
  3. Locate the System Volume Information folder.
  4. Right-click on it and select Properties.
  5. Go to the Security tab and click Advanced.
  6. Ensure that the SYSTEM account has Full control permissions.
  7. If it doesn’t, click Add, select SYSTEM, and grant full control.
  8. Apply the changes and close all windows.
  9. Try running System Restore again.

This step is essential because without proper permissions, Windows cannot access or modify restore point files, leading to errors.

Step 4: Disable Third-Party Antivirus Temporarily

Many antivirus programs protect system files aggressively, which can interfere with System Restore.

  1. Locate your antivirus icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner).
  2. Right-click on it and look for options such as Pause protection or Disable shields.
  3. Temporarily disable the antivirus protection.
  4. Attempt to run System Restore again.
  5. Remember to re-enable your antivirus after the process completes to keep your PC safe.

Disabling antivirus is a simple way to check if it is the cause of the problem. Many users find this resolves their System Restore issues.

Step 5: Perform System Restore from Safe Mode

Safe Mode starts Windows with minimal drivers and services, which can help avoid conflicts causing the error.

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to System > Recovery.
  3. Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.
  4. After reboot, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
  5. Press 4 or F4 to boot into Safe Mode.
  6. Once in Safe Mode, try running System Restore again.

Safe Mode limits running programs and drivers, reducing the chance of conflicts preventing System Restore from working.

Alternative Methods and Advanced Options

  • Check Disk for Errors: Run chkdsk /f /r from an elevated Command Prompt to fix disk errors that might block file extraction.
  • Create a New Restore Point: If existing restore points are corrupted, creating a fresh one may help future restores succeed.
  • Use System Restore from Recovery Environment: Boot your PC using a Windows 11 installation media and select Repair your computer > Troubleshoot > System Restore.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does System Restore fail to extract files?

This usually happens because system files are corrupted, permissions are incorrect, or antivirus software is blocking access to restore files.

Will running SFC or DISM delete my files?

No, these tools only scan and repair system files. Your personal data remains safe.

Can I use System Restore if my PC won’t start normally?

Yes, you can access System Restore through the Windows Recovery Environment or Safe Mode.

How do I know if my antivirus is causing the problem?

Temporarily disable your antivirus and try System Restore. If it works, the antivirus is likely the cause.

Is it safe to adjust permissions on System Volume Information folder?

Yes, but only grant permissions to the SYSTEM account. Do not alter other settings to avoid causing further issues.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and System Restore still fails, consider these final options:

  • Reset Windows 11: Use the “Reset this PC” feature to reinstall Windows without affecting your files.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft support website for additional assistance and tools.
  • Use Third-Party Recovery Software: In some cases, specialized recovery tools can help restore your system.

Remember, these options may involve more risk or data loss, so proceed carefully and back up your data first.

Conclusion

Fixing the “System Restore failed to extract the file” error on Windows 11 is often achievable by following simple, step-by-step methods. Starting with scanning system files, repairing Windows images, and checking permissions can resolve most issues.

Disabling antivirus temporarily and using Safe Mode further help by reducing conflicts. Alternative options and advanced tools provide additional paths if basic steps don’t work.

Always remember to back up your important files before attempting repairs. With patience and these troubleshooting steps, you can restore your system and keep your Windows 11 PC running smoothly.

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