Windows 10: Struggling with image restore: Windows cannot restore a system image to a computer that has...

Following a Windows 11 update misfire/failure, from which I cannot access the recovery page hard shutdowns at boot screen, repair options fails, uninstall the latest update we ran into a problem...try resetting PC, or even disk check boot configuration could not be opened.....file has been altered....no longer valid, I am at the point to recover my last saved image backup. If I use the HD on a different PC I can see/access my recovery file, however, when I attempt to restore the image file back on to the original PC using a windows media USB I get the error: Windows cannot restore a s

:)

 

OS restore image?

I intended to make use of my 3rd HDD with a restore image - from my experience using similar setups with retail systems, it's a lot easier; move all important files you want to save, do a restore (which typically does a quick format of the HDD), boots up and your ready to roll again.

I'll look into it this week; I at least now have a good starting point. Thanks, y'all! *Toast :toast:

 

restore system image from command prompt, drive d: not seen by system restore

Hi,



Thank you for writing to Microsoft Community Forums.



To be able to help you with the appropriate troubleshooting steps, please reply with the following details:

• Are you trying to restore the system image or create a system image?
  
• Are you able to see the external drive in File Explorer?
  
• Could you please briefly explain the procedure that you are following to initiate a system image restore?
  

In the meantime, I suggest you to refer the articles on
How to: Create a system image in Windows 10 and

How to restore a Windows 10 system image to an existing or larger storage device created by Andre Da Costa.



Please reply with the detailed information, to help you in a better way.



Regards,

Nikhar Khare

Microsoft Community - Moderator

 

System Image Restoration in Windows 10

Hi,

Thank you for posting the query on Microsoft Community.

I appreciate your interest on Windows 10.

Before we proceed, I would like you to answer the following questions:

• Could you please tell me are you facing any issue with your Windows 10 computer?
• Could you please explain in detail “Windows 10 restoration of system Image affects all the existing partitions instead of only C:\”?

When we create system image, by default, a system image includes the drives required for Windows to run. It also includes Windows and your system settings, programs, and files. You can use a system image to restore the contents of your computer
if your hard disk or computer ever stops working.

In Windows 10 We have an option to select other drives while creating System Image backup. If you have selected other drives too when creating System Image backup it will affect those drives too.

I suggest you to create a system image and check.

To create system image on Windows 10 follow the below methods.

• 
  Type File history in the search area on the taskbar and select File history.
  
• 
  Click on System image backup on the left bottom corner of the Window file history Window.
  
• 
  Click on Create System Image on the left panel of the System Image backup windows.
  
• 
  Select the driver, where you want to Create system Image.
  
• 
  Follow on screen instruction.
  

Please get back to us with the updated information. WE will be happy to assist you further.