Uninstalling Windows 11 can be a bit tricky, but it’s totally doable if you know what you’re doing. If you recently upgraded to Windows 11 and found that it’s not your cup of tea, you might be thinking about going back to your previous version, like Windows 10. It’s important to know that you can only roll back within 10 days after the upgrade. Here’s a quick guide: open Settings, head to Update & Security, and look for Recovery. From there, you’ll find the option to go back to Windows 10. This simple trick should have you back on familiar ground in no time.
How to Uninstall Windows 11
Uninstalling Windows 11 involves a series of straightforward steps. These steps will guide you through the process of rolling back to your previous Windows version if you are still within the eligible time frame.
Step 1: Open Settings
Open the Start Menu and click on the Settings icon.
The Settings menu is where you’ll find all the configuration options for your computer. This is the starting point for rolling back your Windows version.
Step 2: Go to Update & Security
In the Settings menu, click on Update & Security.
The Update & Security section houses all the update and recovery options. This is where you’ll find the tools needed to revert your operating system to a prior version.
Step 3: Navigate to Recovery
On the left side of the Update & Security page, click on Recovery.
The Recovery page provides options related to resetting or rolling back your operating system. Pay close attention here, as this is where the magic happens.
Step 4: Click Go Back to Windows 10
Under the ‘Go back to the previous version of Windows 10’ heading, click the ‘Get started’ button.
This button initiates the rollback process. Make sure to have your device plugged in and back up important files, as this procedure may take some time.
Step 5: Follow the On-Screen Instructions
Follow the prompts to complete the rollback process.
The on-screen instructions will guide you through the rollback. You may be asked why you are reverting, and your feedback helps Microsoft improve their products.
After completing these steps, your computer will restart, and you’ll be welcomed back to your previous version of Windows. Remember, you might need to reinstall some apps and updates that were removed during the upgrade to Windows 11.
Tips for Uninstalling Windows 11
- Make sure to back up your files before starting the uninstall process to ensure nothing important is lost.
- Remember, you can only roll back within 10 days of upgrading to Windows 11.
- Check for any app compatibility issues after going back to the previous Windows version.
- Ensure your device is plugged into a power source during the rollback to prevent interruptions.
- Familiarize yourself with the changes in Windows 11 to make a more informed decision about uninstalling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I uninstall Windows 11 after 10 days?
Unfortunately, after 10 days, the option to roll back is no longer available through the Settings menu. You would need to perform a clean installation of the previous operating system.
Will uninstalling Windows 11 delete my files?
Uninstalling Windows 11 via the rollback process should not delete your personal files, but it’s always a good idea to back them up just in case.
Do I need internet access to uninstall Windows 11?
No, you do not need internet access to initiate the rollback, but it’s useful for reinstalling updates afterward.
Can I reinstall Windows 11 if I uninstall it?
Yes, you can reinstall Windows 11 anytime. If you’ve got the installation media, you can use that to upgrade again.
What happens to my apps when I uninstall Windows 11?
Some apps installed after upgrading to Windows 11 might get removed during the rollback. You may need to reinstall them manually.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security.
- Navigate to Recovery.
- Click Go Back to Windows 10.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing how to uninstall Windows 11 and roll back to a previous version can be incredibly useful if the new features or interface aren’t to your liking. This process is relatively straightforward within the 10-day window post-upgrade. However, don’t forget to back up your files first to avoid any unexpected data loss. Understanding the nuances of these updates and how to manage them can make your computing experience much smoother. If you feel adventurous, you might even enjoy exploring further upgrades or customization options once you’re back on a more familiar version. For additional guidance, consider looking up official support channels or reputable tech forums. If uninstalling Windows 11 has been on your mind, hopefully, this guide has clarified the process and empowered you to take action. Remember, technology is a tool meant to serve you, so don’t hesitate to tailor it to your needs and comfort.
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.