What it means
A System Restore point records a past Windows configuration, including system files, registry settings and installed-program state. Applying it can reverse a faulty driver or installation. A file backup is an independent copy of personal information used when a document is deleted, overwritten or lost with a drive.
A real-world example
After installing a faulty printer driver, a restore point from the day before may fix Windows. After deleting a folder of family photos, the same point is the wrong tool; check your file backup or version history instead.
What to do
Before applying a point, use Scan for affected programs and back up personal data. Afterward, verify the original fault and check apps. For file loss, restore a sample from the separate backup.
The distinction that matters
A restore point may live on the same drive and vanish with it. Microsoft's System Restore guide defines the system-change scope; its Windows backup overview separates file recovery methods.
Microsoft's System Restore scope Microsoft's backup and recovery map
