With the recent arrival of Windows 11, many users were excited to update their Windows 10 devices and try out the new features. However, some users realized that Windows 11 wasn’t for them and want to switch back to their previous version. This guide will show you how to downgrade Windows 11 to Windows 10, without losing any of your data.
There are a few reasons why users might want to revert back to Windows 10, such as encountering bugs, not liking the new interface, or a program that is no longer compatible with the new version. Whatever the reason may be, this guide will help you go back to Windows 10.
Method 1: Via Settings
The first method is straightforward and involves using the recovery file that Windows 11 creates during the update. This file only exists for ten days after the update, but it will allow you to return to your previous version of Windows without losing any data.
Here are the steps to follow:
1. Go to Settings and choose Windows Update.
2. Click on Advanced Options, then choose Recovery.
3. You should see an option to go back to your previous version of Windows.
4. Click on Go Back, and select the reason why you want to go back to the previous version.
5. It will then prompt you to check for updates, but you can skip this step.
6. Windows will begin restoring the previous version of Windows 10.
7. Your system will restart, and the recovery process will begin.
Method 2: Using Windows 10 ISO Files
If you have deleted Windows 10 installation files or did a clean install of Windows 11, you can use a Windows 10 ISO file to downgrade to Windows 10. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Download Windows 10 ISO files from Microsoft.
2. Create a bootable drive so it can install Windows 10.
3. Restart your system and press the function key (varies by system) to enter the BIOS menu.
4. Select the bootable USB option from the BIOS menu.
5. It will ask you to select the version of Windows 10 to install.
6. Select clean install or custom.
7. Choose the partition to install Windows 10. This will erase all data from the drive.
8. The installation process for Windows 10 will begin.
9. Fill in all the required information, and the installation will be completed.
Conclusion
These are the two methods to downgrade Windows 11 to Windows 10. Make sure that your BIOS menu has the bootable USB option enabled, and you have backed up your files to avoid losing any important data. It’s always important to note that downgrading to Windows 10 will erase any new updates and features that Windows 11 has to offer. If you still decide to downgrade, follow the steps above, and you’ll be back to Windows 10 in no time.