System restore normally  backs up the Registry and many important system files frequently and automatically in Windows XP and Vista. But there are a variety of conditions that will prevent System Restore from creating new restore points. If system restore is not working properly there are some steps, you can take to correct the problem.

Step 1Check the available disk space. If its near or below 15% Windows will not create new restore points and may even delete them. The best way to check is through the defragmenter. Click start, system tools and disk defragmenter. This will display the percentage of available disc space for each of the drives.

Step 2:   Task Scheduler is turned off.: System Restore uses the “Windows' Task Scheduler” to create system restore points automatically. To check and make sure Task Scheduler is active, click the  “Start tab,” click “Run” (or Start in Vista), type “services.msc,” and press “Enter.” Scroll down to the” Task Scheduler,” and double click it. If “Service status” doesn't show “Started,” you will have turn it on. To do this click on the downward arrow in the “Start up type” box and select automatic.

Step 3:   System Restore creates restore points automatically when your PC is turned on and idle. If the system is turned off, in use or hibernating, it will not create any restore points.

Step 4:   Occasionally system restore points become corrupted. When this happens, you will need to reset system restore on your computer. To do this, right click on, ”My Computer,” click properties, click the “System Restore” tab, and check the, turn of “system restore” box, click apply and uncheck the box to turn it back on.

In Windows Vista, right click on, ”My Computer,” click properties, click “ System Protection,” clear the box next to ‘C.” When prompted with the message “ Are you shore you want to turn system restore off” click “turn off system restore.” To turn it back on, check the box next to “C’.