Reverting Back to Windows 10 from Windows 11: A Complete Guide
Switching your operating system can be a big step, and sometimes you may find that Windows 11 isn’t quite right for you. If you upgraded to Windows 11 and miss the familiarity of Windows 10, reverting back is an option. This guide will walk you through the process in easy-to-follow steps. By the end, you’ll comfortably be back on Windows 10.
Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Revert Back to Windows 10 from Windows 11
The following steps will help you downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10. Follow each step carefully to ensure a successful transition.
Step 1: Open Settings
Go to the Start menu and open the Settings app.
To find Settings, click on the Start button and then the gear icon (Settings). Alternatively, you can press Windows key + I to open it instantly. Settings is where you’ll find all your system preferences and options.
Step 2: Navigate to Update & Security
In Settings, click on the "Update & Security" option.
Update & Security is where you manage updates, recovery, and several other important system features. It’s your go-to spot for managing your operating system’s health and version.
Step 3: Click on Recovery
Within Update & Security, click on the "Recovery" tab.
The Recovery tab provides several options, including the option to go back to the previous version of Windows. This is crucial for the downgrade process.
Step 4: Select "Go Back to Windows 10"
Under the Recovery tab, find and click on "Go back to Windows 10" and then click "Get started."
This option will only be available if it’s been less than 10 days since you upgraded to Windows 11. If you don’t see this option, you might need to reinstall Windows 10 manually using a bootable USB drive.
Step 5: Follow the On-Screen Instructions
Follow the prompts and answer any questions that appear on the screen.
The system will ask you why you’re going back and may offer some troubleshooting tips. After completing these prompts, your computer will restart and begin the downgrade process.
After completing these steps, your computer will restart several times to remove Windows 11 and reinstall Windows 10. This process can take some time, so be patient.
Tips: How to Revert Back to Windows 10 from Windows 11
- Backup Your Data: Always back up your important files before starting the downgrade process. This ensures your data is safe if something goes wrong.
- Check Compatibility: Make sure your programs and hardware are compatible with Windows 10 before downgrading.
- Know the Time Limit: Remember, you can only use the "Go back" feature within 10 days of upgrading to Windows 11.
- Have Your Windows 10 Key Ready: If you need to do a manual reinstall, have your Windows 10 product key on hand.
- Update Your Drivers: After downgrading, check for any driver updates to ensure your hardware works correctly with Windows 10.
Frequently Asked Questions: How to Revert Back to Windows 10 from Windows 11
Can I revert back to Windows 10 after 10 days?
Unfortunately, the built-in option is only available for 10 days. After that, you’ll need to do a clean install of Windows 10.
Will I lose my files when downgrading?
Your files should remain intact, but it’s always best to back them up before starting the process.
Do I need my Windows 10 product key to revert?
You typically don’t need it when using the built-in recovery option, but you will need it if you do a clean install.
What if the "Go back to Windows 10" option is grayed out?
This can happen if it’s been more than 10 days or if system files related to the previous OS were removed. You’ll need to do a clean install in this case.
Can I revert to Windows 10 if I bought a new PC with Windows 11?
Yes, but you’ll need to perform a clean install of Windows 10 using a bootable USB drive.
Summary: How to Revert Back to Windows 10 from Windows 11
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Update & Security.
- Click on Recovery.
- Select "Go Back to Windows 10".
- Follow the On-Screen Instructions.
Conclusion
Downgrading from Windows 11 to Windows 10 can seem daunting, but it’s quite manageable with the right steps. Whether you’re missing certain features or just prefer the feel of Windows 10, reverting back is entirely doable. Remember to back up your data and ensure you meet the time limits for using the built-in recovery option. If it’s been too long, a clean install is always an option, albeit a bit more involved.
For further reading, check out other guides on reinstalling operating systems or troubleshooting common issues with Windows installations. If you have any questions or run into problems, don’t hesitate to seek out additional resources or ask for help on tech forums. Your journey to a smoother, more comfortable computing experience with Windows 10 is just a few steps away!
Matt Tita love writing about Google Sheets and Microsoft Excel. He has been creating tutorials for these applications and many more for over 10 years.