If you’re not quite loving Windows 11 and want to go back to the familiar feel of Windows 10, you’re in luck. You can downgrade your system with a few straightforward steps. First, head to your settings, navigate through the update and recovery options, and choose to roll back to Windows 10. Keep in mind, this option is only available if you upgraded to Windows 11 within the last 10 days. Let’s dive into the detailed steps of how to downgrade Windows 11 to 10.
How to Downgrade Windows 11 to 10
In this section, we’ll break down the steps needed to successfully revert your computer’s operating system from Windows 11 back to Windows 10. Follow these directions carefully, and you’ll be back to the OS you’re comfortable with.
Step 1: Open Settings
To begin, click on the Start Menu and select the Settings gear icon.
Opening Settings is like unlocking a treasure chest. In here, you’ll find all the options you need to tailor your computer to your liking, including downgrading your operating system.
Step 2: Go to Update & Security
From the Settings menu, click on the Update & Security option.
This section is the beating heart of keeping your Windows system up-to-date and secure, but it also holds the key to downgrading back to Windows 10.
Step 3: Select Recovery
In the Update & Security menu, click on Recovery.
Recovery is where the magic happens. It’s your safety net, allowing you to roll back to a previous version of Windows if you’re not satisfied with the latest upgrade.
Step 4: Choose Go Back to Windows 10
Under the Recovery section, click the “Go back to Windows 10” option, then follow the on-screen instructions.
This step is your golden ticket back to Windows 10. You’ll be asked why you’re going back, so be honest—Microsoft uses this feedback to improve future versions.
Step 5: Complete the Process
Follow the prompts, and your PC will restart as it downgrades back to Windows 10.
This is the home stretch. Your computer will take a bit of time to restart and complete the downgrade, so be patient. You’ll be greeted by the familiar Windows 10 interface once it’s finished.
After you’ve completed these steps, your computer will boot up with Windows 10 reinstalled. You’ll be able to access your files and programs just like before, but you might need to reinstall some updates.
Tips for Downgrading Windows 11 to 10
- Back up your data: Always make sure your important files are backed up before starting the downgrade process.
- Check the 10-day limit: You can only downgrade within 10 days of upgrading to Windows 11.
- Note your settings: Write down any custom settings you’ve changed in Windows 11, as these won’t transfer back to Windows 10.
- Prepare installation media: If more than 10 days have passed, you might need to create Windows 10 installation media for a clean install.
- Check compatibility: Some newer hardware may not have drivers available for Windows 10, so ensure your devices are compatible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Downgrading Windows 11 to 10
Can I downgrade after 10 days?
After 10 days, the downgrade option will disappear, and you’ll need to perform a clean install of Windows 10.
Will I lose my files when downgrading?
Generally, your files should remain intact, but it’s wise to back up everything important as a precaution.
Do I need a Windows 10 product key?
If you upgraded from an activated copy of Windows 10, you generally won’t need a new product key to downgrade.
Why can’t I find the Go Back option?
If you don’t see the option, you might have waited too long (over 10 days) or your Windows.old folder was deleted.
Can I upgrade to Windows 11 again after downgrading?
Yes, you can upgrade back to Windows 11 at any time through Windows Updates.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security.
- Select Recovery.
- Choose Go Back to Windows 10.
- Complete the Process.
Conclusion
Rolling back from Windows 11 to Windows 10 can feel like returning to an old friend—familiar, reliable, and just how you like it. But remember, this journey back in time is only possible within 10 days of your initial upgrade. Once you hit that cut-off, you’re looking at a clean installation if you still want to go back.
Downgrading isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about finding the tools and interface that make you most productive. So, if you try out Windows 11 and it’s not the right fit, don’t hesitate to pivot back to what worked for you before. And, as technology keeps advancing, stay curious and open-minded. Who knows? The next big update might just be your cup of tea. In the meantime, enjoy your rebooted Windows 10 experience, and feel free to explore more tech fixes and updates as they come your way. Happy computing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.