How to downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10

Windows 11 is the latest version of the Windows operating system, released in October 2021. It comes with many new features, including a new user interface, improved performance, and better integration with Microsoft's services. However, if you've upgraded to Windows 11 and are experiencing issues or simply prefer the look and feel of Windows 10, you can downgrade back to Windows 10. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10.

Before You Begin

Before you begin the downgrade process, it's important to back up your files and data. Downgrading will remove all your apps and personal files, so it's important to ensure that your important data is backed up to an external drive or cloud storage. Once you've backed up your data, you can begin the downgrade process.

Requirements for downgrade: You can only downgrade to Windows 10 within the 10 days of your upgrade. for instance, within 10 days if you updated to Windows 11 on August 1st, 2021. The 25th of August 2021 is the last day to downgrade.

Your system should have the necessary files from previous Windows versions, normally located in the Windows.old folder.

You cannot switch back to Windows 10 if the above requirements are not met. If so, a clean install is required in order to return to Windows 10.

Step 1: Open the Settings App

To start the downgrade process, open the Settings app on your Windows 11 computer. You can do this by clicking on the Start menu and selecting the gear icon. Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut "Windows key + I".

Step 2: Navigate to Recovery Settings

In the Settings app, click on the "System" option from the left-hand menu. Then, select "Recovery" from the options on the right-hand side.

Step 3: Restart Your Computer in Advanced Startup Mode

Under the "Advanced startup" section, click on "Restart now" to restart your computer in advanced startup mode.

Step 4: Access the Troubleshoot Options

After your computer restarts, you will see the "Choose an option" screen. From here, select "Troubleshoot".

Step 5: Select Advanced Options

Select "Advanced options" from the Troubleshoot menu.

Step 6: Go Back to the Previous Version of Windows

Under "Advanced options," select "Go back to the previous version of Windows".

Step 7: Choose a Reason for Downgrading

You'll be prompted to choose a reason for downgrading. Select the reason that best describes your situation.

Step 8: Click on Next

Click "Next" to proceed with the downgrade process.

Step 9: Check for Updates

You will be asked if you want to check for updates. Select "No, thanks" and click on "Next".

Step 10: Begin the Downgrade Process

Click "Next" again and then "Go back to earlier build" to begin the downgrade process.

Step 11: Wait for the Process to Complete

Wait for the downgrade process to complete. This may take several minutes.

Step 12: Set Up Windows 10

Once the downgrade process is complete, you will need to set up Windows 10 as you did when you first purchased or installed it.

Step 13: Reinstall Apps and Restore Data

Finally, reinstall your apps and software and restore your data from your backup.

Conclusion

Downgrading from Windows 11 to Windows 10 is relatively easy and can be done in just a few steps. However, it's important to remember that downgrading will remove all your apps and personal files, so it's crucial to back up your data before beginning the process. Once you've downgraded to Windows 10, you can enjoy the familiar look and feel of the previous version of Windows.