How to Go Back from Windows 11 to Windows 10

Do you miss your Windows 10 PC like the others who, after upgrading to Windows 11, want their Windows 10 back? Or, because your PC doesn’t meet the requirements, do you want to return to the older Windows version? 

Regardless of the reason, this post will share workable methods that will help you downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10. 

Whether due to compatibility issues, personal preference, or performance concerns, you might want to revert to Windows 10. It is not as complicated as it seems. However, there are a few things that you should take into account. These include – 

1. You can only revert to Windows 10 within 10 days of upgrading to Windows 11. After this period, the option to downgrade will no longer be available, and you’ll need to perform a clean installation of Windows 10.
2. While the downgrade process typically retains your files, it’s always best to back up your important data to avoid accidental loss.
3. Applications installed after the upgrade to Windows 11 will not carry over to Windows 10. Make a list of these apps so you can reinstall them later.
4. If you’re performing a clean installation of Windows 10, ensure you have your product key handy.
5. Consider whether your system performance issues can be resolved by troubleshooting Windows 11 before deciding to downgrade.

Now that you are familiar with what you need to manage and consider let us jump right into the methods that can help you go back from Windows 10 to 11. 

Ways to Downgrade from Windows 11 to 10 – 3 Methods!

There are multiple ways to go back from Windows 11 to 10. However, you need to check if your PC meets the 10-day criteria. If it’s been less than 10 days since you upgraded, you can use method 1. If not, other methods are listed, too. 

Method 1: Using the Built-In Downgrade Option

Step 1 – Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
Step 2 – Navigate to System > Recovery
Step 3 -Under the “Recovery options” section, look for the “Go back” button.

Step 4 -This option should be available only if the 10-day limit has not passed and the previous installation files are intact.
Step 5 -Windows will ask why you’re reverting. Options may include performance issues, app compatibility, or personal preference.
Step 6 -Select the appropriate reason and click Next.
Step 7 -Follow the on-screen prompts to proceed. You’ll be reminded to back up your data and ensure your device is plugged in to prevent interruptions.
Step 8 -The PC will restart several times during the downgrade process. After completion, you will return to Windows 10 with your previous settings and files intact.

Method 2: Clean Installation of Windows 10

Step 1 – Visit the official Microsoft website.
Step 2 – Download the Media Creation Tool. This tool allows you to create bootable installation media or perform a direct upgrade.

Step 3 – Run the Media Creation Tool and choose “Create installation media for another PC.”
Step 4 – Select the appropriate language, edition, and architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).

Step 5 – Use a USB drive (minimum 8GB) or a blank DVD to create bootable installation media.
Step 6 – Back up your files, documents, and media to an external drive or cloud storage service. Note that a clean installation will erase all data on the system drive.

Step 7 – Insert the bootable USB or DVD into your PC and restart it.
Step 8 – Enter the BIOS/UEFI setup (usually by pressing F2, F12, DEL, or ESC during boot).
Step 9 – Set the bootable media as the primary boot option and save changes.
Step 10 – Follow the on-screen instructions to proceed with installation.
Step 11 – Choose “Custom installation” to format the system drive if necessary. This ensures a fresh start.
Step 12 – After installation, Windows 10 will prompt you to set up your account and preferences.

Method 3: Restoring from a Backup

Step 1 – Go to Settings > System > Recovery and select “Restart now” under Advanced Startup.
Step 2 – Alternatively, press Shift while selecting Restart from the Start menu.
Step 3 – Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Image Recovery.

Step 4 – Connect the drive containing the backup image.
Step 5 – Select the appropriate system image and follow the prompts to restore Windows 10.

Read Also: How To Fix Backup Failure on Windows 11/10

Switching Back is Easy! Make Your Decision Wisely…

Switching from Windows 11 to Windows 10 is manageable, especially within the 10-day window. However, if by chance you have missed out on that train, you still have the option to easily downgrade without hampering your PC. Once you have used any of the methods, make sure you – 

• Update System Drivers
• Reinstall Applications
• Check for Windows Updates
• Verify Data Integrity
• Customize Your System

To update drivers, use an automated way using the advanced driver updater

Needless to say, all these steps will help you make the most out of your current resources. All you need to do is use the correct method and carry it out properly. That will be all for this blog. Hope this helps you and gets the job done. Thanks for reading.  Good luck!

Recommended :

How To Backup & Restore Windows 10 System Files