How to Uninstall Updates in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / October 3, 2025

Windows 11, like all operating systems, receives regular updates to improve security, fix bugs, and introduce new features. While these updates are generally helpful, sometimes they can cause unexpected problems — slowing down your PC, breaking apps, or introducing glitches you didn’t have before.

So, what can you do when an update backfires? The solution is simple: uninstall the problematic update.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how to uninstall updates in Windows 11 safely and effectively. We’ll also cover why you might need to uninstall them, different methods to roll them back, and what to do if uninstalling doesn’t solve your issue.

📌 Key Takeaways (Quick Summary)

  • You can uninstall Windows 11 updates through Settings, Control Panel, Command Prompt, or Advanced Startup.

  • Not all updates can be uninstalled — for example, some security patches are permanent.

  • Use System Restore or Recovery options if the update caused major issues.

  • Always create a backup or restore point before uninstalling updates.

Why Would You Want to Uninstall Updates in Windows 11?

Most of the time, updates are essential. But sometimes, they may cause:

  • Compatibility issues with drivers or third-party apps.

  • Performance problems, such as lag or overheating.

  • System instability, including random crashes or blue screen errors.

  • Feature bugs, where new changes break existing workflows.

👉 If your PC was running smoothly before the update and suddenly started misbehaving, rolling back the update might fix it.

Different Types of Windows 11 Updates

Before diving into the “how,” it’s helpful to understand what kinds of updates you might uninstall:

Type of Update Description Can You Uninstall?
Quality Updates Monthly updates with bug fixes and improvements. ✅ Yes
Feature Updates Major version upgrades (e.g., 22H2 to 23H2). ✅ Yes (temporarily)
Security Updates Critical patches to protect against vulnerabilities. ❌ Usually No
Driver Updates Updates for hardware drivers via Windows Update. ✅ Yes

Methods to Uninstall Updates in Windows 11

There are multiple ways to uninstall updates in Windows 11, depending on the type of update and your situation. Let’s go through them one by one.

1. How to Uninstall Windows 11 Updates via Settings

This is the easiest method for most users.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

  2. Go to Windows Update from the left sidebar.

  3. Click Update history.

  4. Scroll down and select Uninstall updates.

  5. A list of installed updates will appear.

  6. Select the problematic update and click Uninstall.

  7. Confirm the action, and Windows will remove it.

✅ Best for: Recently installed quality updates.

2. How to Uninstall Updates via Control Panel

The classic Control Panel still works for removing updates.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.

  2. In the left pane, click View installed updates.

  3. Find the update you want to remove.

  4. Right-click on it and select Uninstall.

  5. Restart your PC if prompted.

✅ Best for: Users who prefer the old-school interface.

3. How to Roll Back a Feature Update

If you upgraded to a major new version (like from Windows 11 22H2 to 23H2) and regret it, you can roll back to the previous build.

Steps:

  1. Open Settings > System > Recovery.

  2. Under Recovery options, look for Go back.

  3. Click Go back and follow the on-screen instructions.

  4. Select a reason for uninstalling the update.

  5. Wait for Windows to restore your previous version.

⚠️ Note: This option is only available for 10 days after the upgrade.

4. How to Uninstall Updates Using Command Prompt

For advanced users, Command Prompt provides more control.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click, and select Run as administrator.

  2. Type the following command to list installed updates:

    wmic qfe list brief /format:table

  3. Find the HotFixID of the update you want to remove.

  4. Run this command (replace KBxxxxxxx with the update number):

    wusa /uninstall /kb:xxxxxxx

  5. Press Enter and follow the prompts.

✅ Best for: IT professionals or troubleshooting when GUI methods fail.

5. How to Uninstall Updates via Advanced Startup (Safe Mode)

If your PC won’t boot properly after an update, you can remove it via Advanced Startup.

Steps:

  1. Hold Shift and click Restart from the Start menu.

  2. Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Uninstall Updates.

  3. Choose Uninstall latest quality update or Uninstall latest feature update.

  4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

✅ Best for: Systems that crash or fail to boot after an update.

What to Do If You Can’t Uninstall a Windows 11 Update

Sometimes, the Uninstall option is greyed out. Here’s why:

  • Security updates are non-removable.

  • Too much time has passed since a feature update.

  • The update is critical for system stability.

👉 In such cases, try these alternatives:

  • System Restore: Roll back your PC to a restore point before the update.

  • Reset your PC: Keep files but reinstall Windows.

  • Clean install: Start fresh if nothing else works.

Tips Before Uninstalling Windows 11 Updates

  • ✅ Create a backup before making major changes.

  • ✅ Check the KB number of the update causing issues.

  • ✅ Make sure your PC is connected to a reliable power source.

  • ✅ Test other fixes (like updating drivers) before removing an update.

Preventing Problematic Updates in the Future

Want to avoid troublesome updates altogether? Try these:

  • Pause updates: Go to Settings > Windows Update > Pause for 1–5 weeks.

  • Set a metered connection: This delays non-critical updates.

  • Use Group Policy (Pro edition only): Block or delay updates.

  • Update drivers manually: Instead of relying on Windows Update.

Pros and Cons of Uninstalling Windows Updates

Pros Cons
Fixes compatibility issues May expose your system to security risks
Restores system performance Some updates cannot be uninstalled
Resolves app crashes or bugs You may miss new features
Easy to do with multiple methods Not a permanent solution — updates will return

Conclusion

Uninstalling updates in Windows 11 isn’t as scary as it sounds. Whether you use Settings, Control Panel, Command Prompt, or Advanced Startup, you have multiple ways to roll back unwanted changes.

That said, you should only uninstall updates when absolutely necessary. Remember, updates are designed to protect and improve your system. If an update is causing issues, try uninstalling it, but also explore long-term solutions like driver updates, system restore, or waiting for Microsoft to patch the problem.

👉 The key is balance: remove only the problematic updates while keeping your system as secure and up to date as possible.

FAQs About Uninstalling Updates in Windows 11

1. Can I uninstall every update in Windows 11?
No. Some updates, especially security patches, are permanent and cannot be uninstalled.

2. How do I know which update is causing the problem?
Check the Update history in Settings and note the date when issues started. Then match it with recently installed updates.

3. How long do I have to roll back a feature update?
You have 10 days to go back to your previous version after a major update.

4. What happens if I uninstall a security update?
Your PC may become vulnerable to malware or cyberattacks. Always reinstall it once the issue is resolved.

5. Can I stop Windows 11 from automatically reinstalling the same update?
Yes. You can pause updates, hide updates using Microsoft’s Show or Hide Updates troubleshooter, or use Group Policy Editor (Pro edition).

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