Additional factors contributing to this issue include bad sectors on the hard disk, problematic restore points, or temporary issues with disk space that hinder the restoration process. It is crucial to understand that while System Restore is a powerful tool for recovering from system errors and changes, its effectiveness depends greatly on the integrity of system files and the availability of disk space. Users experiencing this issue should understand that patience is crucial; the process can take longer than expected due to the volume of data being processed. If the restore process remains stuck on “initializing” for more than 2 hours, consider a simple restart (press and hold the power button for a few seconds) and attempt the restoration process again. If you find yourself stuck in the same loop, follow the solutions provided below.
1. Performing System Restore in Safe Mode
The restoration process may be interfered with by third-party programs. Booting in Safe Mode temporarily disables such programs and may enable the restore process to proceed without obstructions.
2. Use the SFC Tool to Repair Missing or Corrupted System Files
The System File Checker (SFC) tool scans and automatically repairs damaged or corrupt system files, including important boot files that may cause System Restore to fail. Employing SFC could resolve this problem.
3. Check the Status of Volume Shadow Copy
Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS) is critical for backup and other processes. If VSS is disabled, it will need to be manually enabled for backups and System Restore to function correctly. If all solutions fail and the problem persists, the restore point itself might be corrupt. In such cases, selecting a different restore point or resetting Windows—although at the cost of losing your data—might be necessary to bring your system back to optimal condition.
