How to Remove Windows 11 and Install Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 12, 2025

Upgraded to Windows 11 but not loving it? You’re not alone. Many users find Windows 11 too different, buggy, or incompatible with their hardware and apps. The good news is—you can remove Windows 11 and reinstall Windows 10 without much hassle.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every method to switch back from Windows 11 to Windows 10, step by step.

Why Downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10?

Before we jump into the steps, let’s cover why people switch back:

  • Compatibility issues – Some apps and drivers may not work smoothly.

  • Performance concerns – Older PCs often run slower on Windows 11.

  • User interface preference – Windows 10 feels more familiar to many users.

  • Stability – Windows 10 is currently more stable and reliable.

  • Business requirements – Many organizations haven’t fully adopted Windows 11.

Think of it like upgrading your phone and realizing the new version doesn’t support your favorite apps—you’d want to go back, right?

Method 1: Roll Back to Windows 10 Within 10 Days

If you upgraded to Windows 11 recently, Microsoft gives you a 10-day rollback period.

Step 1: Open Settings

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

  2. Click on System → Recovery.

Step 2: Choose Go Back

  1. Under Recovery options, find Go back.

  2. Click Go back → Follow the prompts.

Windows will reinstall Windows 10 using your old files.

⚠️ Important: This only works within 10 days after upgrading. After that, this option disappears.

Method 2: Roll Back After 10 Days (Extended Option)

If the 10 days are over, you can extend it before it expires with a registry tweak.

  1. Open Registry Editor (regedit).

  2. Navigate to:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\Setup

  1. Look for UninstallWindow.

  2. Change the value from 10 to a higher number (e.g., 60).

This allows rollback even after 10 days. But if you’re already past the rollback period, you’ll need a clean install.

Method 3: Clean Install Windows 10 (Most Reliable Way)

If rollback isn’t available, a clean installation of Windows 10 is your best bet.

Step 1: Backup Your Data

Before reinstalling, save your important files:

  • Documents

  • Photos

  • Videos

  • App data

  • Browser bookmarks

You can use OneDrive, Google Drive, or an external hard drive.

Step 2: Create a Windows 10 Installation Media

  1. Go to Microsoft’s official site.

  2. Download the Media Creation Tool.

  3. Plug in a USB drive (at least 8GB).

  4. Run the tool and select Create installation media for another PC.

  5. Choose Windows 10, language, and architecture (64-bit recommended).

  6. Burn the files to your USB drive.

Step 3: Boot from USB

  1. Insert your bootable USB drive.

  2. Restart your PC and enter BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing F2, F12, or Del).

  3. Change boot priority to USB Drive.

  4. Save and restart.

Step 4: Install Windows 10

  1. Select your language and region.

  2. Click Install now.

  3. Enter your Windows 10 product key (or skip if you already had a licensed version).

  4. Choose Custom: Install Windows only.

  5. Select the partition with Windows 11 and format it.

  6. Install Windows 10 on that partition.

Your PC will restart several times during installation.

Step 5: Install Drivers and Updates

  1. After installation, connect to Wi-Fi.

  2. Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update.

  3. Install all drivers and security updates.

Method 4: Restore from a System Image Backup

If you created a system image of Windows 10 before upgrading:

  1. Insert your recovery drive or system repair disc.

  2. Boot from it.

  3. Select Troubleshoot → Advanced options → System Image Recovery.

  4. Choose your Windows 10 backup.

This restores your PC to its exact state before upgrading.

Method 5: Use OEM Recovery Partition

Some PCs come with a recovery partition. You can reset your device to factory settings (often Windows 10).

  1. Restart PC → Press F9, F11, or specific OEM key.

  2. Enter recovery mode.

  3. Choose Reset to factory image.

⚠️ This wipes all data—make sure to back up first.

Pros and Cons of Downgrading

âś… Pros:

  • Familiar interface

  • Better compatibility

  • More stable performance

❌ Cons:

  • Time-consuming reinstall

  • Possible data loss

  • Might need to reinstall apps and drivers

Tips Before Reinstalling Windows 10

  • Always backup files first.

  • Keep your Windows 10 product key handy.

  • Check for driver updates from your PC manufacturer.

  • Use a reliable USB stick for installation.

Common Issues and Fixes

  • Product key not accepted → Skip, Windows 10 will auto-activate if you had a digital license.

  • PC still boots into Windows 11 → Check BIOS boot priority settings.

  • Missing drivers → Visit your manufacturer’s website for downloads.

Conclusion

Removing Windows 11 and going back to Windows 10 is absolutely possible. If you’re within 10 days, you can roll back with just a few clicks. If not, a clean install is the most reliable option. By following these steps carefully, you can enjoy the stability, compatibility, and familiarity of Windows 10 once again.

FAQs

1. Can I downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10 without losing data?
Yes, if you use the rollback option within 10 days. Otherwise, a clean install requires a backup.

2. Do I need a new product key for Windows 10?
No, if your PC was previously activated with Windows 10, it will auto-activate.

3. Will my files be deleted if I reinstall Windows 10?
Yes, unless you back them up before doing a clean install.

4. Can I upgrade to Windows 11 again later?
Yes, Microsoft allows free upgrades from Windows 10 to Windows 11 anytime.

5. Is Windows 10 still supported?
Yes, Microsoft will provide support and updates for Windows 10 until October 14, 2025.

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