Do you know how to start a system restore from command prompt? If you are trying to figure it out, come to this post. MiniTool will walk you through a full guide to perform a system restore from command prompt on Windows 10 and Windows 7.

System Restore is a built-in Windows recovery feature that allows you to revert system settings and files to a previous, functional state.

The standard command used to execute System Restore is rstrui.exe.

This article explains how to perform a System Restore via the Command Prompt, covering scenarios where Windows boots normally as well as those where it fails to boot.

Also read: What’s Windows 11/10 System Restore & How to Enable/Create/Use.

When Should You Use CMD to Perform a System Restore?

You can use the command line to perform a System Restore in the following situations:

  1. Windows fails to start normally.
  2. The computer displays a black screen or gets stuck in a boot loop.
  3. The system crashes after installing drivers or Windows updates.
  4. You are unable to access the desktop graphical interface normally.

The following sections describe how to perform System Restore from Command Prompt Windows 11/10, whether the system boots normally or fails to boot.

How to Perform a System Restore from Command Prompt in Normal State

When your computer boots up normally but the system is sluggish, the start menu fails to open, or you need to quickly launch System Restore, you can directly access the system restore Windows 11/10 interface using the “rstrui.exe” command.

The following are the detailed steps for performing a System Restore from Command Prompt Windows 10, assuming Windows starts normally:

Step 1: Type cmd in the Search box, and choose Run as administrator form right side.

Step 2: Type rstrui.exe and press Enter.

Type rstrui exe command line.

Step 3: The system restore window will pop up, and click Next to continue.

Step 4: In the list of all system restore points, select a Restore point, and click the Next button.

The System Restore interface with the selected Restore Point and click Next.

Step 5: Then, confirm your restore point by clicking the Finish button.

Step 6: After that, restart your computer.

How to Perform a System Restore from Command Prompt in WinRE

If your PC fails to boot normally, you can open Command Prompt to perform a system restore through the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).

Tips:
Simply put, WinRE is a tool environment used to repair, restore, and reset the system when Windows fails to start normally or encounters serious errors.

Step 1: To enter WinRE, just interrupt the Windows startup process 3 times. Power on the PC and then power it off immediately when you see the PC logo screen.

Step 2: Repeat this process 3 times, and the WinRE will open automatically.

Step 3: Click Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.

The Advanced options interface with the selected Command Prompt option.

Step 4: Wait a moment, then select your account and enter your password.

Step 5: In the new pop-up window, type rstrui.exe, and hit Enter.

The Administrator interface with typing rstrui exe.

Step 6: Select one of the restore points and follow the on-screen instructions.

How to Fix System Restore Failed to Extract the File? [8 Ways]
How to Fix System Restore Failed to Extract the File? [8 Ways]

Are you vexed by the System Restore failed to extract the file error? This post analyzes all possible causes of the error and provides several effective fixes.

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System Restore from Command Prompt FAQ

1. Does System Restore delete personal files?
No, it does not delete personal files such as documents, pictures, or videos. System Restore only affects Windows system files, device drivers, and registry settings.
2. What should you do if rstrui.exe fails to run?
You can try the following methods:
1. Enter WinRE and then run the command.
2. Use Safe Mode.
3. Perform a Startup Repair.
3. Can I perform a System Restore from a bootable USB?
If your computer can’t restart normally, you can boot it using a Windows installation USB drive. After it starts from the USB, enter WinRE and run System Restore from there.
4. What are the risks associated with System Restore?
Generally speaking, System Restore is a relatively safe operation; however, if the process is unexpectedly interrupted, it may lead to system instability and the removal of some installed software and updates.

Bottom Line

If updating the system or installing software causes issues with your computer, you may need to restore the system to a more stable state. Performing a System Restore can help you do this.

Even if the system fails to boot normally, you can still perform a System Restore via the Command Prompt within the WinRE.

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About The Author

Cecilia
Cecilia

Position: Columnist

Cecilia has been an editor at MiniTool for two years. She primarily focuses on disk and partition-related content, with particular expertise in disk cloning, partition recovery, and PDF document conversion. She is dedicated to providing users with clear and accurate solutions to help them efficiently resolve common computer problems.

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