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Computers and Technology => Computer Help Desk => Topic started by: seriousdamage on July 19, 2015, 07:43 hrs

Title: Can a system restore remove a virus?
Post by: seriousdamage on July 19, 2015, 07:43 hrs
Hello Guys,

I have just fully formatted my PC using one of the programs recommended by you (DBAN)
I have now re-installed windows 7 and in addition about 6 programs which are my daily
bread&butter. So at this point my PC is as perfect as it should be.

If I take a note of the time now or when I made the last change, and in future I get to the point
again where I think that the computer needs a total clean up again, would a system restore
be enough to remove any possible viruses? Or is there another method to go back to today's position
without having to go trough the full format and re-installation?

Many Thanks
Nic
Title: Re: Can a system restore remove a virus?
Post by: Bill on July 19, 2015, 08:14 hrs
Using System restore will let you go back to any past restore points that exist on your machine.  Generally Windows 7 creates Restore Points when a change to the system occurs.
You can also create a Restore point manually by typing "create a restore point" using the Start>Search all Programs and then use the Dialogue box that comes up and "configure"
option.  The simple answer to your question is yes.  You will not have to do a manual format with this option.
Title: Re: Can a system restore remove a virus?
Post by: scuzzy on July 19, 2015, 08:24 hrs
System Restore can easily be corrupted by malware, so while it is better than nothing, it certainly is not foolproof. System Restore also has limitations, such as how far back you can restore a system, or storing it off line. Keep in mind that if your system is so corrupted that you can't boot to Windows, you won't be able to access System Restore.

While I have used System Restore once or twice to save my hide, the best bet is to create a system image. A system image will create an exact copy of your Windows setup that you can restore at a future date if needed. You can then keep that image on a backup drive (hard drive, flash drive, or DVDs) for further protection; something you cannot do with System Restore.

How-To Geek has this helpful guide on how to create a system image in Windows 7, 8 or 10 (http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/4241/how-to-create-a-system-image-in-windows-7/), using Window's built-in tools. Or use a free program such as the easy-to-use AOMEI Backupper (http://www.aomeitech.com/aomei-backupper.html). You can also try EaseUS Todo Backup Free (http://www.todo-backup.com/products/home/free-backup-software.htm), which is JA's favorite method of creating system images. TechRadar.com has a list of best free backup software (http://www.techradar.com/us/news/software/applications/best-free-backup-software-11-programs-we-recommend-1137924) if you want to consider other free options. I personally use the paid Acronis True Image (http://www.acronis.com/en-us/personal/pc-mac-backup/).