How do I enable or disable System Restore?

System Restore is a feature of Windows XP which can restore your computer to a previous state, if a problem occurs, without losing your personal data files (Word documents, Internet History, Internet Favorites, or e-mail messages). System Restore automatically creates Restore Points every 24 hrs (by default).
These restore points allow you to revert the system to a previous time. The Restore Points are also at the time of significant system events (such as when an application or driver is installed). You can also create and name your own restore points at any time.
By default, the System Restore can use a maximum of 12% of the hard disk space. If the 12% allocation point is reached, System Restore will start purging it's Restore Points in a First In First Out basis, to accommodate room for the future Restore Points. Sometimes, the System Restore points may get infected by a virus. In that case, clearing the System Restore point is the only option to eradicate the virus in that area. The procedure is explained below:
To disable System Restore feature, try the steps below:
  • Right-click My Computer and choose Properties
  • Click System Restore tab
  • Check Turn Off System Restore on all drives
  • Click OK
Restart Windows, and now the previous Restore Points will be purged by Windows XP. To enable the System Restore, repeat the above steps, but remove the check mark on "Turn Off System Restore on all drives" option.