System Restore files

[Gig-O-Ram]

Under "Free Up Disk Space", TuneUp Utilities is showing that I can remove 4.2GB of System Restore files. Granted, I haven't used the System Restore in a long time, and more files will likely be made as time goes on, but is it safe to remove these files?

[screwballl]

I tend to shut mine off every 3 months to clear out the old System restore files then turn it back on and create a new restore point. This does help speed the system up. Also since I typically reinstall windows every 1-2 years, it always stays fairly fresh and clean. I think since I have used XP, I myself have only once had to use System Restore on my own computer and that was a conflicting driver.

[Gig-O-Ram]

You know, I didn't even know that the Restore thingy could be turned on or off...I've never looked at the settings feature. I can't remember how long I've had this current install of Windows, but it's at least over a year. My system is fairly good speed wise, but I suppose any little bit helps. I do what I can to keep my system in good shape, but I have used S.R. for similar reasons that you have...some driver or app messes something up, so I gotta take it back to yesterday or something.

[Boy'nBlack]

You can adjust the amount of space Restore will use in the system properties, Restore tab. Select the drive and adjust it to 1%, the lowest possible. That's 2.5G on a 250G drive and 6G on a 640G drive...more than needed really.

If you feel your computer is just fine right now, delete them all and then instantly make a new restore point. If you have it set up to 1%, it'll never hog up more than what you really need, however it only then has you able to go back about 2 months. If you're on 24/7, it doesn't make restore points as often. It'll wait until a reboot to do it. If it's not on 24/7, you'll have a lot of points. A lot of apps, windows updates, and drivers will make a restore point during the process.

[Gig-O-Ram]

I've known about the settings to change how much it restores, but I've just never changed it. Maybe I will, so it doesn't create so many files. I deleted all the restore points, since there weren't really any critical ones anyway, and made a new one. I'm not on 24/7, but I did have about 3 months worth of points. I knew about files to do Restores, but I never realized it created that many excess files.

[Boy'nBlack]

Yup, you allow it 10%, it'll use it all. Same with the recycle bin and the default variable virtual memory.