Switching back from Windows 11 to Windows 10 isn’t too bad, but it’s a bit funny how Windows puts a time limit on the ‘go back’ option before it disappears. If you upgraded recently and decided it’s not your cup of tea, you *can* roll back within about ten days—after that, you’ll need to do a full reinstall, which can be a pain. Anyway, here’s how I’ve done it, and what to keep in mind.
How to Return to Windows 10 from Windows 11
This is mainly for folks who upgraded recently — Windows keeps a copy of your old system files for ten days, so you’ve got to act quick. The process is pretty straightforward, but if you’ve tinkered with your system a lot or cleaned up files manually, the option might’ve gone walkabout. Still, here’s the deal.
Method 1: Use the Settings (The easiest way)
First up, open Settings — easiest to click the Start menu and then tap the gear icon, or press Windows + I. Once you’re in, look for the Update & Security section — it’s a bit buried these days, so don’t get sidetracked.
Click on Update & Security, then head over to the Recovery tab. Here, you’ll see the option for Go back to Windows 10 if it’s still available. If you can’t see it, that probably means the ten-day window has closed or the old files got cleaned up. No idea why it works sometimes and not others — Windows can be a real mongrel sometimes.
If you see the button, click on it, then just follow the prompts. Windows will ask why you want to roll back, then warn you about losing some settings or apps installed after the upgrade. Confirm you’re okay with that, and click through. After that, it’ll restart a few times, and Bob’s your uncle — back to Windows 10.
Pro tip: During this process, keep your device plugged in. Windows doesn’t like unexpected shutdowns when reverting. Also, turn off your antivirus temporarily if it’s being a bit over the top — it might block some system files needed for the rollback. Small stuff, but I’ve run into it before.
Method 2: Use a Windows Recovery Drive (if the menu options have evaporated)
Sometimes the ‘Go back’ option isn’t there anymore — maybe because of a cleanup or the ten days are up. Then, you’ll need to do it a bit more manually:
- Create a Windows recovery drive (USB), which you can do from Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Advanced Startup > Restart now. Choose Troubleshoot, then Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
- Next, boot from the recovery media, then go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Image Recovery (if you had a backup). Alternatively, use command line options to manually delete Windows 11 files and reinstall Windows 10 — but that’s a bit more involved and could turn into a headache.
On some setups, this can be a tricky gig or just flat-out not work, especially if you’ve deleted the old system files or cleaned up your disk. Best to have a full backup ready — that way, you won’t end up with a bricked system.
Tips for Going Back to Windows 10 from Windows 11
- Backup your files: Always a good shout before messing around with your system—better safe than sorry.
- Check the upgrade window: The ten-day limit is key — it’s your safe window to just roll back without doing a reinstall.
- Keep it plugged in and be patient: The rollback can take a while, so don’t start clicking around during the process.
- Turn off security software if needed: Sometimes antiviruses can cause issues, so consider disabling them temporarily.
- Expect some settings or apps to go walkabout: This rollback isn’t perfect, so a few preferences or programs might get lost.
FAQs
Can I go back after ten days?
Technically, yes — but it’s a different kettle of fish. You’ll need to do a clean install of Windows 10 from scratch, which means more prep work and backing up everything important. Not a lot of fun, but it can be done.
Will my personal files stay safe?
Most likely, yeah. Windows tries to keep your files intact, but it’s always best to back up just in case the rollback doesn’t go to plan.
Is there a cost for reverting?
Nope, it’s free — Windows just keeps a copy for ten days and then deletes it to free up space.
What if the recovery option has disappeared?
If the menu’s empty or missing, the window’s probably closed, or the system files got cleaned. At that point, you’ll need to do a full reinstall and use a Windows 10 install USB or DVD.
Do I need a product key?
If your Windows 10 was activated before, just reinstalling it on the same hardware should activate automatically. No dramas required.
Summary
- Open Settings and head to Update & Security.
- Jump to the Recovery tab.
- If it’s working, click Go back to Windows 10.
- Follow the prompts, hang in there, and keep your device plugged in.
Hopefully, this saves someone a fair bit of hassle. Just remember, act quick, backups are the way to go, and Windows can be a bit fussy about old files. Good luck, mate!