Which Windows feature allows for restoring the system to a previous state?

The feature that allows for restoring the system to a previous state is System Restore. This tool is specifically designed to create and manage snapshots of the operating system settings and configuration, enabling users to revert the computer to an earlier point in time when the system was functioning correctly. It focuses on the operating system's files and settings and does not affect personal data files.

System Restore operates by using restore points, which are snapshots of the system taken automatically before significant changes, such as software installations or system updates, occur. If issues arise after such changes, users can employ System Restore to roll back the system to a previous restore point, which can often resolve stability issues.

In contrast, File History primarily backs up user files, allowing for recovery of those specific files rather than the entire system state. System Recovery typically refers to options available within a recovery environment to fix system issues but does not themselves restore system states. Backup and Restore facilitates creating backups of files and systems but does not function based on restore points like System Restore does.