Change is a constant in the world of technology, and operating systems are no exception. Windows 11, with its attractive interface and improved features, may tempt you to upgrade. Still, like any change, there may be reasons why you might want to revert to your previous OS or look for an alternative option. In this guide, we will explain how to uninstall Windows 11.
Whether you’re experiencing compatibility issues, prefer the familiarity of an older Windows version, or simply want to explore other possibilities, we’ve got you covered.
Before we begin, there are some conditions that may need to be met. You can uninstall Windows 11 and keep your files only within a 10-day window after installation. After that time frame, you’ll need to do what’s commonly called a “clean install” of Windows 10 or your previous operating system. We’ll provide step-by-step instructions for both methods, making sure you have the information you need to proceed.
Still not sure whether to uninstall or keep Windows 11? Take a look at our guide to Windows 10 vs Windows 11.
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Roll back to Windows 10 and keep your files
The simplest method to uninstall Windows 11 involves rolling back to Windows 10. This approach ensures that none of your files are lost. However, there is one important caveat – you must start this process within 10 days of your initial Windows 11 update. If this timeframe applies to your situation, please follow the steps below. Otherwise, you can proceed to the next section.
step 1: Open Windows 11 Settings menu with windows key + I,
step 2: Click on Sidebar Windows Update,
step 3: In the middle of your screen, click advanced options,
step 4: Click recovery after this Go back button.
Step 5: If you’re using a laptop, plug it into a power outlet and follow the on-screen steps.
After a few restarts, your PC will be set back to Windows 10 and no longer on Windows 11. This is the safest and easiest way to go back to Windows 10 as it keeps everything in place. You won’t lose any of your files or documents, but any apps you installed while using Windows 11 will no longer exist.
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Install Windows 10 via ISO and delete your files
An alternative approach to uninstall Windows 11 and return to Windows 10 involves using an ISO file. This method is necessary if you’ve passed the 10-day rollback limit, but it comes with a significant trade-off: all your files and applications will be lost, requiring a fresh start.
Before proceeding, we strongly recommend that you save your files to external storage to ensure that you can access them after the Windows 11 uninstallation process. Once your files are safely backed up, you can follow the steps below.
step 1: Visit Microsoft’s website and download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool.
step 2: Once the tool is downloaded, launch it on your Windows 11 system, and agree to Microsoft’s terms of service.
step 3: Select the option to create installation media for another PC and click nextAnd then next one more time.
step 4: choose iso file and then choose next,
Step 5: Choose a location to save the file (the desktop is a good place).
Step 6: Allow downloading of Windows 10.
Step 7: Click finishAnd then navigate to the location where you saved the ISO.
Step 8: Double-click the ISO file to launch it. look for to install Click the icon and click it, then follow the instructions on your screen to downgrade back to Windows 10.
It is essential to thoroughly test and evaluate Windows 11 within the initial 10-day period to determine your satisfaction with the operating system. If the 10 day grace period has passed, the only way to uninstall Windows 11 and return to Windows 10 is to use the ISO file. This process means a clean installation of Windows 10 and will result in losing access to your files and applications. Therefore, timely evaluation is important to avoid this scenario.