So, you upgraded to Windows 11, but now you’re thinking: “I miss Windows 10.” You’re not alone. While Windows 11 has a fresh design and cool features, it’s not for everyone. Maybe your favorite apps don’t work smoothly, maybe performance feels slower, or maybe you just don’t like the new look.
The good news? You can return to Windows 10. The process depends on how long ago you upgraded, but I’ll walk you through every method step by step so you can get back to the comfort of Windows 10.
Why Go Back to Windows 10?
Before we start, let’s talk about why you might want to downgrade:
- Familiarity – Windows 10 feels more comfortable and familiar.
- Compatibility – Some apps or drivers may not work properly on Windows 11 yet.
- Performance – Older PCs sometimes run better on Windows 10.
- Customization – Some users prefer the old Start menu and taskbar layout.
Things You Need to Know Before Downgrading
A rollback or fresh install is not something to rush into. Here are the key points:
- You can roll back to Windows 10 within 10 days of upgrading to Windows 11.
- After 10 days, Windows deletes the old files, so you’ll need to reinstall Windows 10 manually.
- Always back up your files before downgrading.
- Make sure you know your Microsoft account details and product keys.
Option 1 – Roll Back to Windows 10 (Within 10 Days)
This is the easiest method if you upgraded recently.
Step 1 – Open Settings
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Step 2 – Navigate to Recovery
- Go to System > Recovery.
Step 3 – Select Go Back
- Under Recovery options, click Go back.
- Choose a reason for downgrading.
Step 4 – Follow On-Screen Instructions
- Windows will guide you through the rollback.
- Your PC will restart several times.
When it’s done, you’ll be back on Windows 10 with all your files and apps intact.
Option 2 – Extend the Rollback Period to 60 Days
Did you know you can extend the rollback window before the 10 days expire?
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
- Type this command and hit Enter:
DISM /Online /Set-OSUninstallWindow /Value:60 - This extends the rollback window to 60 days.
If you already passed the 10 days, though, this won’t work.
Option 3 – Clean Install Windows 10 (After 10 Days)
If the rollback option is gone, you’ll need a fresh install.
Step 1 – Back Up Your Files
Save everything important to an external drive or cloud storage.
Step 2 – Download Windows 10 Media Creation Tool
- Visit the Windows 10 download page.
- Download the Media Creation Tool.
Step 3 – Create Bootable USB
- Plug in an empty USB (8 GB or more).
- Run the tool and choose Create installation media.
- Follow the prompts to prepare your USB.
Step 4 – Boot from USB
- Restart your computer.
- Enter BIOS/UEFI (press F2, F12, Delete, or Esc).
- Set the USB drive as the first boot device.
Step 5 – Install Windows 10
- Choose Custom installation.
- Select your main drive and format it (be careful—this erases everything).
- Follow the installation steps.
What About Activation?
Here’s the good news: If your laptop or PC had a valid Windows 10 license before upgrading, it’s stored digitally. That means once you reinstall Windows 10, it should activate automatically when you connect to the internet.
Reinstalling Drivers and Apps
After installing Windows 10, you may need to:
- Install drivers for graphics, Wi-Fi, and audio from your PC manufacturer’s site.
- Reinstall your apps (Office, browsers, etc.).
- Restore backed-up files.
Alternative: Use a System Image Backup
If you created a system image before upgrading, you can restore it.
- Connect your backup drive.
- Boot into recovery mode.
- Choose System Image Recovery.
- Follow the prompts to restore Windows 10.
Troubleshooting During Downgrade
Sometimes issues pop up during rollback or reinstall:
- Go back option missing – You waited more than 10 days or deleted Windows.old.
- No USB boot option – Enable Legacy Boot or UEFI in BIOS.
- Activation fails – Log in with your Microsoft account to restore digital license.
Pros of Returning to Windows 10
- Better compatibility with apps and hardware.
- Familiar interface for productivity.
- Stable updates (Windows 10 is supported until October 14, 2025).
Cons of Returning to Windows 10
- You’ll miss out on Windows 11’s new features.
- Limited support beyond 2025.
- Requires time to reinstall apps and drivers.
Tips for a Smooth Downgrade
- Always back up files before you begin.
- Keep your charger connected (for laptops).
- Use a fast USB 3.0 drive for quicker installation.
- Download important drivers before wiping your system.
Should You Stay on Windows 10?
If you value stability and compatibility over new features, Windows 10 is still a great choice. Microsoft will support it until October 14, 2025, so you’ve got time before needing to upgrade again.
Conclusion
Downgrading from Windows 11 to Windows 10 isn’t as scary as it sounds. If you’re still within the 10-day window, rolling back is quick and painless. If not, a clean installation will get you back on track—it just takes a bit more preparation.
Whether it’s for performance, compatibility, or just personal preference, returning to Windows 10 can give you the comfort and stability you miss. Just remember: back up your files, follow the steps carefully, and you’ll be good to go.
FAQs
Q1: Can I go back to Windows 10 after 10 days?
Yes, but you’ll need to perform a clean installation using a bootable USB.
Q2: Will I lose my files when rolling back?
If you use the rollback option, your files stay intact. But with a clean install, everything gets wiped.
Q3: Do I need a product key to reinstall Windows 10?
No, if your device already had Windows 10 activated before, your digital license will reactivate automatically.
Q4: How long does the downgrade process take?
Rollback usually takes 30–60 minutes. A clean install may take 1–2 hours.
Q5: Is Windows 10 still safe to use?
Yes, Microsoft will provide security updates until October 14, 2025.