So, you upgraded to Windows 11 but realized it’s not for you? Maybe some apps aren’t working, performance feels slower, or you just prefer the familiar comfort of Windows 10. Here’s the problem: Windows only gives you 10 days to roll back directly to Windows 10 after upgrading.
But what if that window has already passed? Don’t worry—you still have options. In this step-by-step guide, I’ll explain why the 10-day limit exists, what you can do after it’s expired, and the best ways to go back to Windows 10 safely.
Why Does Windows 11 Have a 10-Day Rollback Limit?
When you upgrade to Windows 11, your system keeps a copy of your old Windows 10 files in a folder called Windows.old. This allows you to “undo” the upgrade easily.
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For the first 10 days, you can roll back with just a few clicks.
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After 10 days, Windows automatically deletes the old files to free up storage.
Think of it like a safety net that disappears after a while—you need a different strategy if you missed the window.
Option 1: Restore Windows 10 Using a Backup (Best Method)
If you created a system backup before upgrading, congratulations—you’re ahead of the game!
Steps to Restore from Backup:
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Plug in your backup drive or open your cloud backup software.
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Boot into your backup tool (e.g., Macrium Reflect, Acronis, Windows Backup).
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Select your Windows 10 backup image.
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Restore it to your main drive.
This instantly puts your PC back to its pre-upgrade state—like time-traveling to before Windows 11.
Option 2: Perform a Clean Install of Windows 10
If you didn’t make a backup, the next best option is a clean installation. Yes, it takes more effort, but it guarantees a fresh start.
Step 1: Download Windows 10 ISO
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Go to Microsoft’s official Windows 10 Download page.
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Click Download Tool Now under Create Windows 10 installation media.
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Run the tool and select Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file).
Step 2: Create a Bootable USB
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Insert a USB drive (at least 8GB).
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Use the Media Creation Tool to make it bootable.
Step 3: Install Windows 10
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Restart your PC and boot from the USB drive (change boot order in BIOS if needed).
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Choose Install Windows 10.
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Select your drive, format it (optional but recommended), and install.
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Follow the on-screen instructions.
When it’s done, you’ll be back on Windows 10, but without your old programs or settings.
Option 3: Use System Restore (If Enabled)
If you had System Restore enabled, you might be able to revert to a pre-upgrade point.
Steps:
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Press Windows + S, type System Restore, and select Create a restore point.
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Click System Restore.
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Choose a restore point dated before your Windows 11 upgrade.
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Follow the prompts to restore your system.
This isn’t always available, but it’s worth checking.
Option 4: Reinstall Windows 10 Using a Recovery Drive
If you previously created a Windows 10 recovery drive, you can use it.
Steps:
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Insert your recovery USB.
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Restart your PC and boot from the USB.
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Follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall Windows 10.
Option 5: Contact Your PC Manufacturer
Some laptops and desktops come with a factory reset option that restores the system to its original OS (often Windows 10).
Steps:
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Restart your PC and press the manufacturer’s recovery key (often F9, F11, or F12).
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Choose Factory Reset.
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This reinstalls the original OS your PC shipped with.
What About My Files and Apps?
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Files: If you do a clean install, your files will be erased unless you back them up first.
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Apps: You’ll need to reinstall all programs manually.
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Licenses: Your Windows 10 license is still valid—Microsoft allows you to reinstall and activate it.
👉 Tip: Back up your important documents, photos, and software keys before making changes.
Can I Extend the 10-Day Rollback Period?
Yes, but only if you do it before the 10 days are up.
Steps to Extend Rollback Time:
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Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
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Type:
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Press Enter.
This changes the rollback window to 60 days. Unfortunately, if the 10 days have already passed, it won’t work.
Pros and Cons of Uninstalling Windows 11 After 10 Days
Pros:
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Get back the familiar Windows 10 environment.
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Restore compatibility with older apps.
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Improve stability if Windows 11 feels buggy.
Cons:
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Requires backup or fresh install.
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Time-consuming setup process.
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Possible data loss if you don’t back up files.
Tips Before Reverting to Windows 10
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Backup all important data.
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Write down software license keys (e.g., MS Office).
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Keep your drivers handy.
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Ensure you have at least 8GB USB drive for reinstallation.
Should You Stay on Windows 10 or Keep Windows 11?
If you’re undecided, here are some quick pointers:
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Stay on Windows 11 if:
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Your PC runs smoothly.
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You want the latest features and design.
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You rely on long-term updates (Windows 10 support ends in 2025).
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Go back to Windows 10 if:
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You face compatibility issues.
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Performance feels worse.
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You prefer the older look and feel.
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Conclusion
Uninstalling Windows 11 after 10 days isn’t as simple as clicking a button, but it’s definitely possible. The easiest way is restoring a backup image, but if you don’t have one, a clean install of Windows 10 is your best bet.
Remember: always back up your files before making changes. Whether you choose to roll back or stick with Windows 11, the key is finding the system that works best for your needs.
FAQs
Q1: Can I roll back to Windows 10 after 10 days without reinstalling?
No, after 10 days the rollback option disappears—you’ll need a backup or reinstall.
Q2: Will my Windows 10 license still work if I reinstall?
Yes. Your license is tied to your device, so Windows 10 will activate automatically.
Q3: Can I extend the rollback window after 10 days?
No. You can only extend it before the 10-day period ends.
Q4: Do I lose my files when reinstalling Windows 10?
Yes, unless you back them up beforehand. Always create backups before reinstalling.
Q5: How long will Windows 10 be supported?
Microsoft will support Windows 10 until October 14, 2025.