Rolling back a Windows 11 update might sound complicated, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. All you need to do is follow a few easy steps to revert your system to its previous version. This can be useful if you’re experiencing issues after an update or if you just prefer the older version of Windows.
How to Roll Back Windows 11 Update
In this section, we’ll walk you through each step to roll back a Windows 11 update. These steps will get your system back to a previous version, ensuring you can continue working without any hiccups.
Step 1: Open Settings
First, click on the Start menu and select “Settings.”
Opening the Settings menu is your gateway to making changes on your Windows 11 system. This is where you’ll find the option to roll back updates.
Step 2: Navigate to Update & Security
Next, in the Settings window, click on “Update & Security.”
This is where all your update-related settings are located. You can check your update history, manage updates, and more.
Step 3: Go to Recovery
In the “Update & Security” section, find and click on “Recovery.”
The Recovery section offers various options for resetting your PC, troubleshooting, and rolling back updates.
Step 4: Click on ‘Go back to the previous version of Windows 10’
Under Recovery, you’ll see an option that says “Go back to the previous version of Windows 10.” Click on it.
This option will be available for a limited time after an update, so make sure to use it soon if you’re having issues.
Step 5: Follow the On-Screen Instructions
You’ll be guided through a series of prompts to complete the rollback process.
These instructions will ask you why you’re rolling back and if you want to check for updates first. Follow them carefully to revert to your previous version.
After completing these steps, your system will revert to the previous version of Windows. This might take some time, and your computer will restart a few times during the process.
Tips for Rolling Back Windows 11 Update
- Ensure you back up important files before starting the rollback process.
- Make sure your device is plugged into a power source to avoid interruptions.
- Check for any available drivers that might need updating after rolling back.
- Note that rolling back might remove some apps or settings changes.
- Be aware that you generally have only 10 days to roll back after an update.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to roll back a Windows 11 update?
You typically have 10 days to roll back after an update.
Will I lose my files if I roll back the update?
No, your personal files should be safe, but it’s always a good idea to back them up.
Can I roll back to an even older version of Windows?
No, you can only roll back to the most recent previous version.
What if the rollback option is not available?
If the option isn’t available, you may have passed the rollback period, or your system may have deleted the old version files.
Will rolling back affect my installed applications?
Some applications might be removed, and settings may revert to their defaults.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Update & Security.
- Go to Recovery.
- Click ‘Go back to the previous version of Windows 10.’
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
Conclusion
Rolling back a Windows 11 update is a handy feature if you find yourself facing issues or simply prefer the older version. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily revert to a previous version and get back to your usual workflow. Remember, it’s always wise to back up your important files before making any big changes to your system. If you have any more questions, feel free to revisit the FAQ section or consult Microsoft’s support documentation for further reading. Now that you know how to roll back a Windows 11 update, you can confidently manage your system updates and maintain a smooth computing experience.
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.