Windows 11 updates are designed to bring improvements, security patches, and new features. But let’s be honest—sometimes an update can do more harm than good. Maybe your PC suddenly slowed down, certain apps stopped working, or you’re simply not a fan of the new changes.
The good news? You can roll back to a previous version of Windows 11 or uninstall a recent update. In this guide, I’ll walk you through all the safe ways to revert a Windows 11 update—step by step.
Why You Might Want to Revert a Windows 11 Update
1. System Performance Issues
Some updates may cause lag, freezing, or slower boot times.
2. App Compatibility Problems
After certain updates, older programs or drivers may stop working properly.
3. Bugs and Glitches
It’s not unusual for a new update to introduce fresh bugs instead of fixing old ones.
4. Personal Preference
Sometimes you just prefer the way things worked before the update.
Types of Windows 11 Updates
Before you dive into the rollback process, it helps to know the types of updates you might encounter:
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Quality Updates → These are monthly patches (security and bug fixes).
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Feature Updates → Big upgrades released yearly (major changes in features and UI).
The method you use to revert depends on which type of update you’re dealing with.
Method 1: Uninstall a Quality Update
This is the best option if your problem started after a small monthly update.
Step 1: Open Settings
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Step 2: Navigate to Update History
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Go to Windows Update → Update history.
Step 3: Access Uninstall Updates
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Scroll down and click Uninstall updates.
Step 4: Remove the Problematic Update
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A list of recent updates will appear.
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Select the one you want to remove and click Uninstall.
Method 2: Roll Back a Feature Update
Feature updates are major, but luckily Windows gives you a rollback option—though only for a limited time.
Step 1: Open Recovery Options
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Go to Settings → System → Recovery.
Step 2: Check the Go Back Option
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Under Recovery options, look for Go back.
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If it’s available, click it.
Step 3: Follow the Wizard
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Windows will ask why you’re rolling back. Pick a reason and continue.
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Follow the prompts until your system reverts to the previous version.
⚠️ Note: This option is only available for 10 days after installing a feature update.
Method 3: Extend the 10-Day Rollback Period
If you need more than 10 days, you can extend it before the rollback period expires.
Step 1: Run Command Prompt as Administrator
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Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click, and select Run as administrator.
Step 2: Use DISM Command
Type this command and hit Enter:
This extends the rollback window to 30 days.
Method 4: Use Control Panel for Update Removal
If Settings doesn’t cooperate, try the old-school method.
Step 1: Open Control Panel
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Search Control Panel in the Start menu.
Step 2: Go to Programs and Features
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Click Programs → Programs and Features → View installed updates.
Step 3: Uninstall Updates
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Select the update and click Uninstall.
Method 5: Use System Restore
System Restore lets you roll back your entire system to an earlier restore point.
Step 1: Open System Restore
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Search Create a restore point in the Start menu.
Step 2: Choose System Restore
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Click System Restore under the System Protection tab.
Step 3: Pick a Restore Point
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Select a date before the update was installed.
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Follow the wizard to revert.
Method 6: Advanced Startup Options
If your PC won’t boot properly after an update, try this.
Step 1: Boot into Recovery
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Restart your PC and hold Shift while clicking Restart.
Step 2: Access Troubleshoot Menu
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Select Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Uninstall updates.
Step 3: Choose the Update
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Select either Uninstall latest quality update or Uninstall latest feature update.
Method 7: Roll Back Drivers (If Driver Update Caused Issues)
Sometimes, a bad driver update is the real issue.
Step 1: Open Device Manager
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Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
Step 2: Select the Device
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Right-click the device (e.g., display adapter) and choose Properties.
Step 3: Roll Back Driver
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Under the Driver tab, click Roll Back Driver.
What If None of These Work?
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Reset your PC (with or without keeping files).
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Reinstall Windows 11 cleanly using installation media.
These are last-resort options if other rollback methods fail.
Tips to Avoid Update Headaches
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Pause updates for a few weeks after release to avoid early bugs.
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Check forums or Microsoft’s site for known issues before updating.
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Back up your system before major updates.
Final Thoughts
Reverting a Windows 11 update doesn’t have to be intimidating. Whether it’s a small patch or a major feature update, Microsoft gives you multiple ways to undo changes and get your PC back to normal. Start with uninstalling updates through Settings, try System Restore if needed, and keep recovery tools handy for emergencies.
A slow or buggy update doesn’t mean you’re stuck with it—rollback is your reset button.
FAQs
1. Can I revert any Windows 11 update?
Yes, but feature updates can only be rolled back within 10 days (unless you extend it). Quality updates can usually be uninstalled anytime.
2. Will reverting remove my files?
No, uninstalling updates won’t delete personal files. But creating a backup is always recommended.
3. Why don’t I see the “Go back” option?
It disappears after 10 days, or if you’ve already cleaned up old system files.
4. Can I block Windows 11 from updating again?
You can pause updates temporarily, but Windows will eventually push them again.
5. Is it safe to uninstall updates?
Yes, but you may lose important security fixes. Only roll back updates if you’re facing major issues.