How to Apply a Restore Point from Windows RE on Windows 11

Getting into the Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE)

The Windows Recovery Environment, or Windows RE, is a special mode that helps fix your PC when Windows won’t start normally. It gives you access to tools to repair your computer, even if Windows itself can’t load up.

Why do we need Windows RE?

Running System Restore normally requires an active desktop, making this hidden recovery menu essential when boot failures occur.

What happens when you enter Windows RE?

When you enter Windows RE, you'll see a screen with options to troubleshoot or repair your computer. It looks different from your normal Windows desktop.

Method 1If Your PC Boots, But Windows Doesn't Load Correctly

1. Go to Settings in Windows.
2. Click on System.
3. Scroll down and click on Recovery.
4. Under "Recovery options," find Advanced startup and click Restart now.
5. Your PC will restart and show a screen with options.

Method 2If Your PC Won't Boot at All

If your PC won't boot up at all, you can force it to start into the Windows Recovery Environment. To do this, interrupt the normal startup process three times by turning your PC on and off at the right moment.

1. Turn on your PC.
2. As soon as you see the Windows logo or the spinning dots, press and hold the power button to turn it off.
3. Repeat this process two more times.
4. On the third time you turn your PC on, Windows should start into the "Automatic Repair" screen. From there, you can access Windows RE.

Applying a Restore Point from Windows RE

Once you are in the Windows Recovery Environment, you can apply a restore point to fix your PC. Click Troubleshoot on the main menu, select Advanced options, and then choose System Restore to open the recovery utility.

1. On the "Choose an option" screen, click on Troubleshoot.
2. On the "Troubleshoot" screen, click on Advanced options. This screen gives you access to more tools for fixing your computer.
3. On the "Advanced options" screen, click on System Restore. This is the option that lets you go back to an earlier time.
4. Admin Access Required: Windows might ask you to choose an account. Pick your user account and type in your password if you have one. If you don't have a password, just click "Continue."
5. You will see the System Restore wizard. Click Next.
6. Windows will show you a list of restore points. These are like saved snapshots of your system.
7. Optional but Recommended: Before you continue, click the Scan for affected programs button. This shows you which programs and drivers might be removed or restored. This helps you understand what will change.
8. After checking the affected programs, click Next.
9. On the final screen, look carefully at the restore point you chose. When you are sure, click Finish.
10. Your computer will restart and begin applying the restore point. This might take 15 minutes or more than an hour. You'll see a progress bar.
11. When the restore is done, your computer will restart again. If it worked, Windows should start normally. Your system will be back to how it was at the time of the restore point. You can then try using your programs to see if the problem is fixed.

Reference:

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/system-restore-a5ae3ed9-07c4-fd56-45ee-096777ecd14e

Summary

You can use System Restore from the Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE) to fix problems that stop your Windows 11 computer from starting normally by returning it to an earlier working state.