How to Rollback Windows 11 Update: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 17, 2025

Windows 11 is packed with new features, security updates, and performance improvements. But sometimes, updates can cause issues — from software incompatibility to unexpected system glitches. If you’re experiencing problems after a recent Windows 11 update, knowing how to rollback Windows 11 update can save you time and headaches.

In this guide, we’ll cover why you might need to rollback, step-by-step instructions for different rollback methods, troubleshooting tips, and how to protect your system from future update issues.

Summary (Key Takeaways)

Step Action Purpose
1 Check your update history Identify the problematic update
2 Use Settings to uninstall the latest update Quick rollback method
3 Use Advanced Startup options If Settings rollback fails
4 Restore from a system restore point Alternative recovery method
5 Pause or defer future updates Prevent immediate reinstallation of problematic updates

Why Rollback a Windows 11 Update?

Updates generally improve your system, but sometimes they can:

  • Cause driver conflicts.

  • Break software compatibility.

  • Introduce performance issues or crashes.

  • Trigger UI glitches or slowdowns.

Rolling back gives your PC a chance to return to a stable state until a fixed update is released.

Prerequisites Before Rolling Back

Before you start:

  • Backup important files to avoid accidental loss.

  • Note the update version you want to rollback.

  • Ensure your PC is plugged in if it’s a laptop.

💡 Tip: Only updates installed within the last 10 days can be rolled back using Settings. After 10 days, you’ll need system restore or installation media.

Step 1: Identify the Problematic Update

  1. Press Win + I to open Settings.

  2. Go to Windows Update > Update history.

  3. Look for the most recent Feature or Quality updates installed.

  4. Note the KB number of the update you want to uninstall.

Step 2: Rollback via Settings

This is the easiest method if the update was recent.

Instructions:

  1. Open Settings (Win + I).

  2. Navigate to Windows Update > Update history.

  3. Scroll down and click Uninstall updates.

  4. In the Control Panel window, select the update (identified by KB number).

  5. Click Uninstall and confirm.

  6. Restart your PC when prompted.

Your system will revert to the previous version before that update.

Step 3: Use Advanced Startup Options

If Settings doesn’t allow rollback (or the update is causing startup issues):

  1. Press Win + I → System > Recovery.

  2. Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.

  3. After reboot, choose:

    • Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Uninstall Updates

  4. Select either:

    • Uninstall latest quality update

    • Uninstall latest feature update

  5. Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your PC.

💡 Tip: This method works even if Windows won’t boot normally.

Step 4: Restore from a System Restore Point

If rollback via update uninstall fails, use a system restore point:

  1. Press Win + S, type Create a restore point, and open it.

  2. Click System Restore > Next.

  3. Select a restore point before the problematic update.

  4. Click Next > Finish and wait for the process to complete.

  5. Restart your PC.

⚠️ Warning: This may remove apps installed after the restore point.

Step 5: Pause or Defer Future Updates

After rolling back, you may want to pause updates to avoid immediate reinstallation:

  1. Open Settings > Windows Update.

  2. Click Pause updates for 7 days.

  3. Or go to Advanced options and choose a longer pause period.

This gives Microsoft time to release a fixed update.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem Cause Solution
Rollback option unavailable Update older than 10 days Use System Restore or installation media
Windows won’t boot after rollback Corrupted update Boot into Safe Mode and retry rollback
Update reinstalls automatically Update paused incorrectly Use Advanced options to defer updates
Missing restore points System Protection disabled Enable System Protection for future safety

Preventing Update Problems in Windows 11

  • Regularly backup your system using File History or a full system image.

  • Delay feature updates for a few days to let early bugs get fixed.

  • Use optional update reviews — don’t install updates automatically if not critical.

  • Keep drivers updated from manufacturer sites to prevent conflicts.

Advanced Tips

  • Create a recovery drive: USB drive with system recovery tools can help in emergencies.

  • Use Windows Insider Preview cautiously: Beta builds may introduce bugs that require rollback.

  • Check update logs: Win + X > Event Viewer > Windows Logs > Setup helps identify faulty updates.

Conclusion

Rolling back a Windows 11 update is a crucial skill if your system becomes unstable after a new feature or security patch. The most common methods — via Settings, Advanced Startup, or System Restore — provide safe and reliable ways to revert to a previous stable state.

Always back up your data and consider pausing updates temporarily to avoid repeating the problem. Following these steps ensures your PC remains functional while Microsoft fixes the update issues.

FAQs

1. How long can I rollback a Windows 11 update?
You can rollback feature updates within 10 days of installation. After that, system restore or installation media is needed.

2. Will rolling back remove my files?
No, your personal files are preserved. Only recent apps or settings changes may be affected.

3. Can I rollback a Windows 11 update if my PC won’t start?
Yes — boot into Advanced Startup or Safe Mode and use Uninstall Updates or System Restore.

4. Does rolling back remove security updates?
Yes, the rolled-back system won’t include the latest security patches. Pause updates and reinstall after fixes.

5. How do I prevent Windows 11 updates from causing problems?
Delay feature updates, keep drivers updated, and maintain regular backups for quick recovery.

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