BYTE -- If you're new to Windows 7, an important thing to do is manually create a Restore Point. You'll be able to return to it later if things go awry.

To do this, click Start, right-click on Computer and select Properties.

In the left panel, click the System Protection link.

The System Properties screen comes up. Click the System Protection tab and click the Create button

Now type in a description to help identify the reason you're creating the Restore Point. The date and time will be automatically filled in.

A progress box displays while the system creates the Restore Point. The amount of time it takes will vary depending on your system, but shouldn't take too long.

When it's finished, you'll get a message letting you know Windows 7 has successfully created the restore point.

To verify you'll be able to access the Restore Point at a later time if you need it, click on System Restore.

When the System Restore window comes up, click Next. Here you should verify the Restore point is intact with the correct date and time, description and it was created manually.

Windows does periodically create Restore Points, but before making major changes to your system, you'll have peace of mind. You'll always be able to restore Windows back to this point if something goes wrong later.

Brian Burgess is the executive editor at BYTE. Follow him @mysticgeek. Got a comment or idea for a How To gallery? Send it to Brian at [email protected].