Upgraded to Windows 11 and not loving it? You’re not alone. While Windows 11 introduces a sleek design and modern features, many users miss the stability, compatibility, and familiarity of Windows 10. The good news is: you can roll back Windows 11 to Windows 10 — and this guide will show you exactly how.
In this comprehensive tutorial, you’ll learn how to downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10 safely, whether you recently upgraded or it’s been months since the switch. We’ll cover multiple rollback methods, backup steps, and troubleshooting tips to ensure a smooth transition.
Why You Might Want to Roll Back Windows 11 to 10
Even though Windows 11 offers a modern design and new features, not everyone enjoys the upgrade. Common reasons to downgrade Windows 11 to 10 include:
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Software compatibility issues — some apps, games, or hardware drivers may not work well on Windows 11.
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Performance drops — older PCs often run slower on Windows 11.
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Unfamiliar interface — users prefer Windows 10’s Start menu and layout.
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Missing features — certain classic functions are removed or hidden in Windows 11.
In short, Windows 10 remains a stable, proven OS — supported by Microsoft until October 14, 2025.
Can You Downgrade Windows 11 to 10?
✅ Yes, but it depends on your situation.
There are two main ways to roll back:
| Situation | Downgrade Option | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| You upgraded within the last 10 days | Built-in rollback via Settings | Keeps your files, quick and simple |
| More than 10 days since upgrade | Clean install of Windows 10 | Deletes all files — backup needed |
Windows 11 keeps your old Windows 10 installation files for 10 days. After that, the system automatically deletes them to free up space.
Before You Begin: Essential Preparations
Before rolling back, make sure you’re ready. Here’s what to do:
1. Back Up Important Data
Always back up your personal files, photos, and documents to:
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An external hard drive
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OneDrive or Google Drive
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A USB flash drive
2. Note Down App Licenses and Passwords
If you perform a clean install, you’ll need to reinstall software — make sure you have all product keys saved.
3. Keep Your Laptop Plugged In
Downgrading can take time. To avoid interruptions, keep your PC connected to power.
4. Check Your Internet Connection
You’ll need internet to download Windows 10 files if doing a clean install.
Method 1: Roll Back to Windows 10 Within 10 Days (Using Settings)
If you upgraded to Windows 11 less than 10 days ago, this is the easiest way.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Open Settings
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Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
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Go to System → Recovery
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Navigate to System on the left sidebar.
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Click Recovery on the right.
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Find the “Go Back” Option
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Under Recovery options, find Go back.
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Click Go back.
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Choose a Reason for Downgrading
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Select any reason (e.g., “Windows 10 seemed easier to use”).
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Click Next.
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Follow On-Screen Prompts
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Windows will warn you about losing new settings or apps.
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Click Next → Go back to Windows 10.
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Wait for Rollback to Complete
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Your system will restart several times during the process.
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Once finished, you’ll return to your previous Windows 10 setup.
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💡 Tip: Your files and settings remain intact during this process, but always back up important data just in case.
Method 2: Roll Back After 10 Days (Using Clean Installation)
If it’s been more than 10 days since you upgraded, the “Go back” option will no longer be available.
Don’t worry — you can still downgrade manually by installing Windows 10 from scratch.
How to Create a Backup Before Downgrading
Before reinstalling Windows, create a full backup:
Option 1: Use File History
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Go to Settings → System → Storage.
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Select Advanced storage settings → Backup options.
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Turn on File History and select a backup drive.
Option 2: Use OneDrive
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Sign in to OneDrive.
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Drag your important folders (Documents, Desktop, Pictures) into OneDrive.
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Wait for upload completion.
How to Download the Official Windows 10 ISO File
To reinstall Windows 10, you’ll need the official ISO from Microsoft.
Step-by-Step:
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Visit the Windows 10 download page.
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Scroll to Create Windows 10 installation media.
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Click Download tool now.
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Launch the Media Creation Tool.
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Choose Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file).
How to Install Windows 10 Using a USB Drive
Once you’ve downloaded the Media Creation Tool, follow these steps:
Step 1: Create Bootable USB
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Insert a USB drive (8GB minimum).
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In the tool, select USB flash drive.
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Wait for the tool to download and prepare the files.
Step 2: Boot from the USB Drive
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Restart your PC.
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Press the boot menu key (usually F12, Esc, or Del) during startup.
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Choose your USB drive to boot.
Step 3: Install Windows 10
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Select your language and region.
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Click Install Now.
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Choose Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).
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Select your primary drive and click Next.
Windows 10 will begin installing. This process may take 20–40 minutes.
How to Activate Windows 10 After Downgrading
Good news — you don’t need a new license.
If your PC originally came with Windows 10 or was activated before upgrading, Windows 10 will auto-activate once you’re online.
To check activation:
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Press Windows + I → System → Activation.
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You should see “Windows is activated with a digital license.”
How to Reinstall Your Apps and Drivers
After a clean installation, reinstall your favorite software and essential drivers.
Recommended Order:
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Chipset and graphics drivers – from your manufacturer’s website (HP, Dell, Lenovo, etc.)
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Wi-Fi/Bluetooth drivers
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Windows Updates (Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates)
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Applications – browsers, office tools, games, etc.
💡 Pro Tip: Keep your drivers and apps organized in a dedicated backup folder for future reinstalls.
Troubleshooting Common Rollback Errors
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| “Go back” button greyed out | Upgrade older than 10 days | Perform a clean install |
| Activation failed | Network issue or license mismatch | Run Windows activation troubleshooter |
| Missing drivers | Clean install removes them | Download drivers manually from manufacturer |
| Data loss | Skipped backup | Use data recovery tools (e.g., Recuva) |
What Happens to Your Files During Rollback?
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Method 1 (within 10 days): Keeps all personal files, apps, and settings.
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Method 2 (clean install): Deletes everything on the primary drive — backup required.
✅ Always double-check that backups are complete before proceeding.
Tips to Optimize Windows 10 After Downgrading
Once you’re back on Windows 10, follow these steps to keep it running fast and secure:
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Run Windows Update immediately after installation.
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Install antivirus (Microsoft Defender or third-party).
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Clean startup apps using Task Manager → Startup tab.
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Defragment drives (if using HDD).
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Use Storage Sense to automatically free up space.
Should You Stay on Windows 10 or Return to Windows 11?
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Feature | Windows 10 | Windows 11 |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility | Excellent | Some issues with older hardware |
| Performance on older PCs | Better | Slightly slower |
| Interface | Classic | Modern, centered taskbar |
| Support end date | October 2025 | Ongoing |
| Gaming performance | Great | Equal or better (on new hardware) |
If stability and familiarity matter most, Windows 10 is the safer choice. But if you have modern hardware and want new features, Windows 11 might be worth another try later.
Conclusion: Safely Return to Windows 10
Rolling back Windows 11 to Windows 10 is completely possible — and often straightforward.
In summary:
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Use the “Go back” option if you upgraded recently (within 10 days).
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Perform a clean install if more than 10 days have passed.
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Always back up your data before starting.
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Reinstall essential drivers and apps afterward.
With a little preparation, you can comfortably return to the stable, familiar experience of Windows 10 — no regrets.
FAQs About Rolling Back Windows 11 to 10
1. Can I downgrade Windows 11 after 10 days?
Yes, but you’ll need to perform a clean installation using a USB or ISO file.
2. Will I lose my files when I roll back to Windows 10?
Not if you use the built-in rollback feature within 10 days. After that, a clean install will erase files — so back them up first.
3. Do I need a new license key for Windows 10?
No — your existing Windows 11 digital license also works for Windows 10.
4. How long does the rollback process take?
Usually between 30 minutes and 1 hour, depending on your system speed and data.
5. Can I upgrade back to Windows 11 later?
Absolutely. You can re-upgrade anytime via Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates.
🔑 Key Takeaways
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Windows 11 can be rolled back to 10 within 10 days easily.
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After 10 days, a clean reinstall is required.
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Always back up files and check activation afterward.
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Use the official Microsoft ISO for safety.
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You can return to Windows 11 anytime in the future.