Does system restore really bring the computer to pre-loss conditions?

I created a restore point, then I installed a 3 day trial limit shareware.
When it expired, I rewinded using system restore, then reinstalled that same software.

It tells me my trial period is expired.

Well, this to me tells me if virus,malware, or etc got in, system restore might not be completely removing it.

Why did system restore fail to reset the time limit?

 

Trialware flags in the Registry are not monitored by System Restore. It only monitors certain system files.

Trialware providers are careful to protect their products by using a system that is hard to defeat (or at least very inconvenient).

 

My fear is that same strategy is being used by malware and spywares.

 

Quite so and a reasonable fear. That's why it takes some experts with the hot licks to clean some malwares and virii and even then it often hobbles the system so much that a Repair Install is needed to restore all functions.

Generally, I test trialware and other new programs by using my clone system which I describe as my "Test Dummy." It saves me a lot of grief since it's expendable and I can easily re-clone a new copy if it gets too far out of shape.

BTW, I never use System Restore and keep it disabled. Acronis True Image is much more reliable.

 

Then, we also have problems with programs that scans your system, then call home.

It is similar to bars and clubs that use ID scanners that reads the magnetic strip/barcode to file away information about patrons beyond age verification.
http://www.scanmyid.com/

Portland, OR based iovation has such a thing called iesnare that lets its subscriber identify your computer based on hardware fingerprinting technology.

marketing stalking, fraudulent affiliate offer credit generation and such are becoming a huge issue today.