Best way is from the command prompt. He can do the restore from Windows without programs. This is usually my first method on a system as bad as his.
To start System Restore using the Command prompt, follow these steps:
* Restart your computer, and then press and hold F8 during the initial startup to start your computer in safe mode with a Command prompt.
* Use the arrow keys to select the Safe mode with a Command prompt option.
* If you are prompted to select an operating system, use the arrow keys to select the appropriate operating system for your computer, and then press ENTER.
* Log on as an administrator or with an account that has administrator credentials.
* At the command prompt, type %systemroot%\system32\restore\rstrui.exe, and then press ENTER.
* Follow the instructions that appear on the screen to restore your computer to a functional state.
%systemroot% = windows (most cases).
Found this way via the internet on the other computer on the network. Got my icons and programs back, but can’t find “My Documents” and my “Favorites” are gone from my browser. Wondering how I managed to delete everything.