Upgraded to Windows 11 but not loving it? You’re not alone. Some users find Windows 11’s new look refreshing, while others miss the stability and familiarity of Windows 10. The good news is, Microsoft gives you options to roll back to Windows 10—at least for a limited time. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to go back from Windows 11 to Windows 10 step by step.
Why Go Back to Windows 10?
Windows 11 is sleek, but there are a few reasons why you might want to revert:
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Compatibility Issues – Older apps or hardware may not run properly.
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Performance Problems – Some devices feel slower after upgrading.
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Familiarity – Windows 10 has a layout and design you may prefer.
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Missing Features – Certain features from Windows 10 aren’t available in Windows 11.
Important Things to Know Before Going Back
1. Time Limit
You can only go back to Windows 10 within 10 days of upgrading. After that, the rollback option disappears.
2. Backup Your Data
Although rollback usually keeps your files, it’s always smart to back up your data to an external drive or cloud storage.
3. Installed Apps and Settings
Some apps may need to be reinstalled, and your settings could reset.
4. Product Key Activation
If your PC came with Windows 10 originally, it should activate automatically after rollback.
Method 1: Roll Back to Windows 10 Using Settings
This is the easiest way to return to Windows 10 if you’re still within the 10-day window.
Step 1: Open Settings
Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
Step 2: Navigate to Recovery
Go to System > Recovery.
Step 3: Select “Go Back”
Under Recovery options, you’ll see Go back. Click Go back.
Step 4: Provide a Reason
Windows will ask why you’re going back. Choose an option and click Next.
Step 5: Follow the Prompts
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Click Go back to Windows 10.
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Your PC will restart and begin the rollback process.
This may take 20–60 minutes depending on your hardware.
Method 2: Reinstall Windows 10 Manually (After 10 Days)
If the 10-day rollback period has passed, you’ll need to reinstall Windows 10 manually.
Step 1: Download Windows 10 Media Creation Tool
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Go to the Windows 10 download page.
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Click Download tool now.
Step 2: Create Installation Media
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Insert a USB drive (at least 8GB).
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Run the tool and choose Create installation media for another PC.
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Select USB flash drive and let it create a bootable installer.
Step 3: Boot from USB Drive
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Restart your PC and press the boot menu key (usually F12, ESC, F10, or Del).
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Select your USB drive to boot from.
Step 4: Install Windows 10
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Choose your language and keyboard preferences.
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Click Install Now.
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Enter your Windows 10 product key or skip if you already had it activated.
Step 5: Choose Installation Type
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Select Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).
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Delete the partitions containing Windows 11.
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Choose the unallocated space and install Windows 10.
Step 6: Complete Setup
Follow the on-screen instructions to finish installation.
Method 3: Restore from a System Image
If you created a system image backup of Windows 10 before upgrading, you can restore it.
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Boot into Windows Recovery Environment.
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Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Image Recovery.
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Choose your Windows 10 backup image.
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Restore your system.
Troubleshooting Going Back to Windows 10
Option to Go Back Missing
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You’re probably past the 10-day limit. Use Method 2 instead.
Rollback Failed
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Ensure your system has enough disk space.
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Disable third-party antivirus software before retrying.
Activation Issues
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Log in with your Microsoft account.
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Use Settings > Update & Security > Activation > Troubleshoot to fix problems.
Tips for a Smooth Transition
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Backup Everything – Even if rollback usually saves files, don’t take risks.
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Keep Drivers Handy – Download Windows 10 drivers for your device before reinstalling.
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Update After Rollback – Install all updates once you’re back on Windows 10.
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Check Your Apps – Some may need reinstalling after the downgrade.
Conclusion
Going back from Windows 11 to Windows 10 is absolutely possible, whether you’re within the 10-day rollback window or need a clean reinstall. If you act quickly, the rollback option in Settings is the fastest method. If not, you can reinstall Windows 10 using the Media Creation Tool. Either way, backing up your files and preparing ahead of time will make the process smooth and stress-free.
FAQs
Q1: Can I go back to Windows 10 after 10 days?
Not with the rollback option. You’ll need to reinstall Windows 10 manually.
Q2: Will I lose my files when I go back?
Rollback usually keeps files, but a manual reinstall will erase everything—so back up first.
Q3: Do I need to buy a new license for Windows 10?
No, if your PC was already activated with Windows 10 before, it should reactivate automatically.
Q4: How long does the rollback process take?
Typically 30–60 minutes, depending on your computer speed.
Q5: Can I upgrade back to Windows 11 later?
Yes, you can upgrade again anytime through Windows Update or installation media.