How to Downgrade to Windows 10: Step-by-Step Guide for Users

By / October 14, 2025

Have you recently upgraded to Windows 11 but miss the familiarity and stability of Windows 10? You’re not alone. Many users have found that while Windows 11 offers a sleek design and new features, it doesn’t always fit their workflow or device compatibility. The good news is that you can downgrade to Windows 10 — and it’s easier than you might think.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to downgrade to Windows 10 step-by-step, covering multiple methods depending on your situation. Whether you upgraded recently or installed Windows 11 months ago, this comprehensive guide will help you safely revert to Windows 10 without losing your data.

Why Downgrade to Windows 10?

While Windows 11 introduces a modern interface and improved security, not everyone finds it ideal. Some users experience software compatibility issues, slower performance, or missing features they relied on in Windows 10.

Common Reasons to Downgrade:

  • Hardware incompatibility with older devices

  • Driver or performance issues on certain systems

  • Missing features like taskbar customization or legacy settings

  • Preference for the classic Windows 10 layout

  • Software or app incompatibility

If you fall into any of these categories, going back to Windows 10 can restore your system’s stability and comfort.

⚙️ Before You Start: Key Considerations

Before downgrading, keep these important points in mind:

  1. Backup Your Data: Always create a backup of important files before making system changes. Use OneDrive, an external hard drive, or cloud storage.

  2. Check the 10-Day Limit: You can only revert to Windows 10 within 10 days after upgrading to Windows 11 — after that, your old files are deleted automatically.

  3. Know Your Product Key: Usually, Windows will activate automatically, but keep your product key handy just in case.

  4. App Reinstallation: Some apps and settings may need to be reinstalled after the downgrade.

  5. Stable Internet Connection: You’ll need it to download installation media and updates.

🧰 Method 1: Downgrade Within 10 Days (Using Windows Recovery)

If it’s been less than 10 days since you upgraded to Windows 11, Microsoft provides a built-in rollback option to go back to Windows 10. This is the easiest and fastest way.

✅ Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Open Settings: Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.

  2. Navigate to System → Recovery.

  3. Under Recovery options, find the Go back button next to Previous version of Windows.

  4. Click Go back.

  5. Select a reason for going back (e.g., My apps or devices don’t work on Windows 11).

  6. Click Next → No, thanks when asked to check for updates.

  7. Click Next again, then choose Go back to Windows 10.

Your PC will restart, and Windows will begin restoring your previous Windows 10 version automatically.
The process may take 15–30 minutes, depending on system speed.

💡 Note: Your personal files should remain safe, but always back them up first to avoid accidental loss.

🧩 Method 2: Downgrade After 10 Days (Using Windows 10 Installation Media)

If more than 10 days have passed since upgrading, the built-in rollback option will no longer be available. In that case, you’ll need to manually reinstall Windows 10 using a bootable USB.

This method performs a clean installation, so all your files and apps will be erased. Back up your data before proceeding.

💽 How to Create a Bootable Windows 10 USB Drive

To install Windows 10, you’ll first need to create a bootable USB drive.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Go to Microsoft’s official site:
    👉 https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows10

  2. Click Download tool now to get the Media Creation Tool.

  3. Plug in an 8GB or larger USB flash drive.

  4. Open the downloaded tool (MediaCreationTool.exe).

  5. Accept the license terms.

  6. Choose Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) → click Next.

  7. Select your language, edition, and architecture (64-bit) → click Next.

  8. Choose USB flash drive → click Next.

  9. Select your USB drive and click Next again.

The tool will download Windows 10 and create your bootable USB automatically.

💿 Step-by-Step: Clean Install Windows 10

Once you’ve created the bootable USB, you’re ready to reinstall Windows 10.

✅ Step 1: Boot from the USB

  1. Insert the bootable USB drive into your PC.

  2. Restart your computer.

  3. Press the appropriate BIOS key (usually F2, F12, Del, or Esc) as it starts up.

  4. Enter the Boot Menu and select your USB drive as the boot device.

Your PC will load the Windows Setup screen.

✅ Step 2: Start the Installation

  1. Choose your language, time, and keyboard preferences → click Next.

  2. Click Install Now.

  3. If prompted for a product key, click I don’t have a product key (Windows will usually activate later automatically).

  4. Select your Windows 10 edition (usually Home or Pro).

  5. Accept the license terms and click Next.

✅ Step 3: Choose Installation Type

Select Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).

This allows you to do a clean install instead of upgrading.

✅ Step 4: Format or Select Drive

You’ll now see a list of drives and partitions.

  • Select the main drive where Windows 11 is installed (typically Drive 0: Partition 3 or similar).

  • Click Format → OK.

Then click Next to start installing Windows 10.

⚠️ Warning: Formatting will erase all files on that partition. Ensure your backups are complete before proceeding.

✅ Step 5: Let Windows Install

Windows will now copy files and install the operating system.
This may take 20–40 minutes, depending on your PC’s speed.

Once complete, your computer will restart several times.

After rebooting, follow the on-screen setup instructions (language, account, password, etc.).

🔑 How to Activate Windows 10 After Downgrading

Usually, if your PC was already activated with a digital Windows 10 license, it will automatically activate after reinstalling.

To Check Activation Status:

  1. Open Settings → Update & Security → Activation.

  2. You should see the message:

    “Windows is activated with a digital license.”

If not, you can manually enter your product key or contact Microsoft Support.

🗂️ Restoring Your Files and Apps

After reinstalling Windows 10, it’s time to bring your data back.

Restore Files:

  • Copy your backed-up files from your external drive or cloud storage.

  • Reinstall your favorite apps (Microsoft Office, browsers, etc.).

  • Run Windows Update to install all the latest drivers and security patches.

💬 Pro Tip: Use Ninite.com to reinstall popular apps quickly and safely.

🧰 Troubleshooting Downgrade Issues

Issue Possible Cause Solution
“Go Back” option missing It’s been more than 10 days Use installation media method
USB not booting Boot order incorrect Check BIOS settings
Missing drivers after downgrade Older hardware or manual driver removal Install drivers from manufacturer’s website
Activation failed Hardware changed or wrong key Use the original Windows 10 product key or contact support

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10 without losing data?

Yes, but only within 10 days of upgrading using the built-in rollback feature. After that, a clean install is required.

2. Do I need a new Windows 10 license key?

No. If your PC was previously activated with Windows 10, Microsoft will reactivate it automatically after reinstalling.

3. Can I downgrade from Windows 11 Home to Windows 10 Pro?

No, you can only downgrade to the same edition (Home → Home, Pro → Pro). You’ll need a Pro license for that upgrade.

4. What happens to my files when I reinstall Windows 10?

If you perform a clean install, all files will be erased. Always back up important data first.

5. Will Windows 10 still get updates?

Yes. Microsoft will continue supporting Windows 10 with security updates until October 14, 2025.

📋 Key Takeaways

Step Action Description
1 Check rollback option Downgrade within 10 days if available
2 Backup your data Prevent data loss during downgrade
3 Create bootable USB Use Media Creation Tool
4 Reinstall Windows 10 Follow clean install steps
5 Reactivate Windows Use your existing digital license

🏁 Conclusion

Downgrading from Windows 11 to Windows 10 doesn’t have to be complicated — it’s all about choosing the right method for your situation. If you’re within the 10-day window, the built-in recovery option is quick and painless. Otherwise, performing a clean installation using a bootable USB is your best bet.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can confidently return to Windows 10 and enjoy the performance, familiarity, and compatibility you’re used to.

💬 Final Tip: Keep a copy of your Windows 10 installation USB handy — it can save you hours of troubleshooting if you ever need to reinstall again.

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