How to rollback from Windows 11 to Windows 10

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

After encountering different bugs, a number of errors, and many crashes, users have been searching for a way to roll back from Windows 11. In this guide, you'll learn how to roll back from Windows 11 to Windows 10.

2. How to Fix

If you’re not sure how many days ago you installed Windows 11, and thus, don’t know if you can easily rollback, read along for details:

1. Press the Windows key + X to open the Start menu options and select Windows Terminal (Admin).
   
   

1. Choose Yes in the UAC pop-up.
   
   

1. Type the following command and press Enter to run: dism.exe /online /Get-OSUninstallWindow



1. The number of days remaining since your Windows 11 installation will be displayed.
   
   

How can I rollback from Windows 11 to Windows 10?

1. Extend the trial period to 60 days

It is worth mentioning that this method will only work if you perform it before the initial 10 days have passed. 

1. Open Windows Terminal by pressing the Win + X keys on your keyboard and selecting the app from the menu.
   
   

1. Run the following command: DISM /Online /Set-OSUninstallWindow /Value:60



1. Now run this command:dism.exe /online /Get-OSUninstallWindow


2. The trial period should now be extended to 60 days.
   
   

2. Use the built-in Settings app to rollback to Windows 10

1. Click on the Start Menu and open Settings.
   
   

1. Choose Windows Update, then click on Advanced options.
   
   

1. Scroll down the list and choose Recovery.
   
   

1. Click on the Go Back button under the Recovery options menu.
   
   

1. Microsoft will ask about the reasons you have to go back to Windows 10. Choose an answer and then click Next.
   
   

1. Select the No, thanks button.
   
   

1. Click Next to confirm.
   
   

1. Make sure you don’t forget your PIN and password because you’ll need it later. Click Next.
   
   

1. Click the Go back to earlier build button.
   
   

1. We also recommend you back up your files. While downgrading does not delete your personal data from your PC, it’s better to be safe than sorry in case something goes wrong, and you have to format your drives.

What to do if Windows 11’s installation automatically starts after the rollback?

1. Delete the update downloaded files

1. Do not restart when the pop-up appears.
   
   
2. Press the Windows key + E to start File Explorer and navigate to the following path: C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download



1. Press Ctrl + A to select all the files at that location.
   
   

1. Press Shift + Delete to completely remove the files and click Yes to confirm.
   
   

1. Click the Start button and choose Update and Restart.
   
   After these steps are completed, your OS will try to install Windows 11, but the needed files were removed, so the process will not go through.

2. Use Disk Cleanup

1. Click the Search button in your taskbar, type disk cleanup, and click on the app from the results.
   
   

1. Click the Clean up system files button.
   
   

1. Wait for the process to complete, then restart your PC.

What can I do if the 10-day trial has passed?

If the rollback period has passed, the only method to go back to Windows 10 is to install a fresh copy of the OS. Fortunately, that is a simple and straightforward process:

1. Head over to the Microsoft download page. While here, download the Media Creation Tool.
   
   

1. Run the downloaded file and accept the terms of service.
   
   

1. Click on the Upgrade this PC now option, then hit the Next button.
   
   

1. Media Creation Tool will start downloading Windows 10. This might take a few hours depending on your Internet speed.
   
   

1. Click Accept to agree to terms of service.
   
   

1. Click Next. Keep in mind that you won’t be able to keep any of your personal files.
   
   

1. Click the Yes button to confirm the option.
   
   

1. Wait while the tool inspects your system.
   
   

1. The last step is to click the Install button.