How to Roll Back from Windows 11 to Windows 10

If you upgraded to Windows 11 and find that it does not suit your needs, Microsoft allows you to return to Windows 10 seamlessly using a built-in recovery feature. This rollback option is available for 10 days following the upgrade and restores your previous operating system without deleting your personal files. The following guide explains the requirements, the step-by-step process to roll back, and what to expect during the downgrade.

The 10-Day Rollback Window Explained

When you upgrade to Windows 11, the system retains a copy of your previous installation in a folder named Windows.old. This folder allows you to revert to Windows 10 effortlessly within a 10-day grace period. After 10 days, Windows automatically deletes these files to free up disk space, removing the direct rollback option and requiring a clean installation if you want to switch back later.

Steps to Go Back to Windows 10

Before starting, ensure your computer is plugged into a power source to prevent interruptions.

Open Settings: Click the Start menu and select the Settings gear icon (or press Windows Key + I).
Go to Recovery: Under the System tab on the left, scroll down on the right pane and click Recovery.
Select Go Back: Locate the Previous version of Windows option and click the Go back button next to it.
Answer the Survey: A window will appear asking why you are going back. Select a reason and click Next.
Check for Updates: Windows will ask if you want to check for updates instead of rolling back. Click No, thanks.
Review Information: Read the on-screen notices detailing app and setting changes, then click Next.
Remember Password Warning: Ensure you know your local Windows 10 account password, as you will need it to sign in after the rollback. Click Next.
Confirm the Rollback: Click the final Go back to Windows 10 button.

The computer will restart several times while restoring your previous operating system. This process usually takes between 10 to 30 minutes depending on your hardware.

Important Considerations

Personal Files: Your documents, photos, and personal data are preserved during the rollback. However, creating a backup of your important files to an external drive or cloud storage before proceeding is always recommended.
Applications: Any applications installed or settings modified after upgrading to Windows 11 will be removed and will need to be reinstalled on Windows 10.
Post 10-Day Period: If the 10-day period has expired, the “Go back” button will be greyed out or missing. In this scenario, returning to Windows 10 requires backing up your data and performing a clean installation using the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool.