How to Roll Back from Windows 11 to Windows 10

How to roll back from Windows 11 to Windows 10 is a question many users have been asking since Windows 11 launched. Even though Windows 11 comes with new features, a modern look, and improved security, not everyone has had a smooth experience with it. Some users feel that the interface is confusing, some have performance issues, and others simply prefer the stability of Windows 10. Whatever your reason may be, rolling back to Windows 10 is absolutely possible—and in this guide, you will learn exactly how to do it safely.

Rolling back your operating system sounds scary at first, but if you follow the steps carefully, the process is straightforward. In this complete guide, I will walk you through the different methods available, what you need to prepare beforehand, and what to expect after you switch back to Windows 10.

Why You May Want to Roll Back Windows 11

Even though Windows 11 has many improvements, there are several reasons why users decide to return to Windows 10:

1. Performance problems

Some systems, especially slightly older laptops or desktops, don’t run Windows 11 smoothly. You might notice:

Sluggish performance
Stuttering animations
Longer startup times
Heating or battery drain (on laptops)

Windows 10 is generally more stable on older hardware.

2. App or driver compatibility issues

Certain applications, especially older software or games, may not work well on Windows 11. Sometimes drivers for printers, cameras, or other peripherals also cause issues. Windows 10 has wider compatibility, so switching back can solve many of these problems.

3. User interface preference

Many users don’t like the centered Start Menu or the new layout of Windows 11. If the design doesn’t feel comfortable, going back to Windows 10 restores the familiar experience.

4. Bugs or instability

Windows 11 is still actively evolving, and some updates may introduce bugs. Returning to Windows 10 gives you a more stable and predictable environment.

Before You Roll Back: Important Things to Know

Before you start the rollback process, here are some things you must check to avoid losing data or facing unexpected problems.

You can roll back easily only within 10 days

After upgrading to Windows 11, Microsoft gives you a 10-day window to roll back to Windows 10 with one click. After 10 days, the previous version files are automatically deleted.

But don’t worry—there are still other methods if the 10-day period has passed.

Backup your data

Although the rollback usually keeps your files, it is always better to back up:

Documents
Photos
Downloads
Desktop items
App data

Use an external drive, USB, or cloud services like OneDrive or Google Drive.

Backup your license key (optional)

Most Windows 10/11 devices use a digital license linked to your Microsoft account, so you won’t need a product key. Still, it’s good to note it down using the Command Prompt command:

wmic path softwarelicensingservice get OA3xOriginalProductKey

Make sure your device is plugged in

For laptops especially, keep your device connected to power to avoid shutdown during rollback.

Method 1: Roll Back From Windows 11 to Windows 10 Within 10 Days

If it has been less than 10 days since you upgraded to Windows 11, this is the easiest method.

Step-by-step rollback process

Open Settings
Press Win + I on your keyboard.
Go to System → Recovery
This section contains options for advanced startup and previous versions.
Find “Go back”
Under Recovery options, you will see a button that says Go back (if available).
Choose a reason
Windows will ask why you want to roll back. Select any option and continue.
Confirm the rollback
Windows will warn you about losing some settings or needing to reinstall apps. Click Next.
Click “Go back to Windows 10”
Your PC will restart and start restoring the previous version.

How long does it take?

The process usually takes 10–30 minutes, depending on your system and files.

When your PC restarts, it should load Windows 10 exactly as you left it before upgrading.

Method 2: Roll Back After 10 Days (Using Windows.old)

If more than 10 days have passed, Windows may have deleted the “Windows.old” folder. But if it still exists, you can still use this method.

Check if Windows.old exists

Open File Explorer → Go to *C:* → Look for a folder called Windows.old.

If it’s there → rollback might be possible manually.
If not → skip to Method 3.

Using Advanced Startup to restore Windows 10

Open Settings
Go to System → Recovery
Under Advanced startup, click Restart now
After restart, choose:
- Troubleshoot
- Advanced options
- Uninstall updates
- Uninstall feature update

This may roll your system back depending on your update history.

But for most users, after 10 days, the official rollback option disappears. In that case, you must reinstall Windows 10.

Method 3: Reinstall Windows 10 Using Bootable USB (Works Anytime)

This is the most reliable method and works even if you upgraded months or years ago.

What you’ll need

An empty USB drive (at least 8 GB)
Internet connection
A second device (optional but helpful for downloading tools)

Step 1: Download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool

Go to Microsoft’s official website and download the Media Creation Tool.

Step 2: Create a Bootable USB

Run the Media Creation Tool and choose:

Create installation media
Select Windows 10
Choose language and architecture (usually 64-bit)
Select USB flash drive

The tool will prepare the bootable drive.

Step 3: Boot from USB

Insert the USB into your computer
Restart your PC
Press F2 / F12 / Delete / ESC (varies by manufacturer)
Choose your USB drive from the boot menu

Step 4: Install Windows 10

When the installer opens:

Choose Install now
Select Custom installation
Choose the drive that currently has Windows 11
Continue installation

Your files will be wiped, but your digital license will activate Windows 10 automatically once you connect to the internet.

Method 4: Using Microsoft’s “Windows 10 Download Assistant”

If you do not want a complete reinstall, the Windows 10 Update Assistant can downgrade your system by installing Windows 10 directly over Windows 11.

Steps:

Download Windows 10 Update Assistant from Microsoft
Run the tool
Follow the on-screen instructions

This method keeps your files, but some apps may be lost.

What Happens After Rolling Back to Windows 10?

Once the rollback or reinstall is complete, here is what you should expect.

1. You may need to reinstall your apps

Most installed programs will be removed during a reinstall. Make sure you have:

Installers
License keys
Backup files

2. Your drivers may need updating

Windows 10 usually installs drivers automatically. If something doesn’t work:

Go to Device Manager
Update drivers manually
Visit manufacturer websites (HP, Dell, Lenovo, etc.)

3. Your system may feel faster

Many users report their systems feel more responsive after switching back to Windows 10, especially older hardware.

4. Windows updates will continue

Windows 10 is supported until October 14, 2025, so you will continue receiving security updates.

Is It Safe to Roll Back to Windows 10?

Yes, it is safe—as long as you follow recommended steps. The rollback itself is a Microsoft feature, and reinstalling Windows has always been supported.

Safe if:

You back up your files
Your device stays powered during the process
You understand that some apps/settings may be lost

Not recommended if:

Your PC depends on features only in Windows 11
You use software specifically optimized for Windows 11

But for most users who prefer stability and familiarity, returning to Windows 10 is completely fine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Will I lose my data when rolling back?

If you use the 10-day rollback option, your files are kept.
If you reinstall Windows 10, your files are deleted, so backup is required.

2. Will my Windows license still work?

Yes. Windows 10 and Windows 11 use the same digital license.

3. Can I upgrade to Windows 11 again later?

Yes, you can upgrade anytime through Windows Update.

4. Will games run better after rolling back?

On some systems, yes. Many games run more smoothly on Windows 10 if hardware is older.

5. Is Windows 10 still safe?

Yes. Windows 10 receives security updates until 2025.