Installed Windows 11 on your machine early but now having compatibility troubles or just prefer the tried-and-true Windows 10? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with a thorough guide on making the transition back to Windows 11 from Windows 10. In this article, we’ll show you exactly what to do to make the switch while keeping all of your data and configurations intact. OK, let’s just jump in, shall we?
Table of Contents
The Case for Downgrading
It’s crucial to know why someone might want to downgrade from Windows 10 before learning how to do so.
The Windows 11 operating system. Some typical examples are as follows:
- Problems with Compatibility: Windows 11 may have compatibility issues with some programmes and hardware. These problems can often be fixed by downgrading.
- If you’ve upgraded to Windows 11 and now realise you prefer the look, feel, or functionality of Windows 10, you can downgrade to Windows 10 with a simple click.
- Reliability and Stability: Windows 11 is a new release, thus there may be some problems with bugs and stability. If you’re having stability issues on Windows 7, upgrading to Windows 10 may be the solution.
Step 1. Make a copy of your data.
You should back up your data before attempting the downgrade so that you don’t lose any irreplaceable files or papers. Here’s how to accomplish that goal:
- You can back up your data by connecting an external hard drive, using a USB flash drive, or signing up for a cloud storage service.
- Create a system image or back up your files to an external disc with the built-in Windows Backup and Restore tool.
Step 2. Making Windows 10 installation discs is the next step.
Bootable installation media is required for downgrading to Windows 10.
To make one, just do the following:
- ISO image of Windows 10 – Download. Go to Microsoft’s official website and get the version of Windows 10 ISO that works with your PC.
- Make a Bootable USB or CD/DVD: Create a bootable USB drive with the Windows 10 ISO using the Windows USB/DVD Download Tool or Rufus and a USB flash drive with 8GB or more of storage space.
Step 3: Get the Downgrade Procedure Underway
You’re prepared to start the downgrading process now that you have a backup and installation media at the ready. Just do what I say:
- Put in the Bootable Drive: Put in the bootable USB drive and restart the computer.
- During startup, hit the appropriate key (often F2, Del, or Esc) to enter the computer’s BIOS or UEFI settings menu, where you can alter the boot order to prioritise the USB drive.
- Microsoft Windows 10 Setup If you want to install Windows 10, just do what it says on the screen. Select the partition you want Windows 10 installed on and click the “Custom” installation button. You must choose the drive that presently houses Windows 11.
- Windows 10 must be activated using the product key or digital licence connected with the computer once the installation is complete.
Back Up Your Information
Restoring your files is the next step after successfully downgrading to Windows 10. What you should do is as follows:
- Software Reinstallation: Before doing anything further, make sure you have reinstalled all of the required programmes on your Windows 10 computer.
- Data Transfer: Restore your files and folders to their original positions on your Windows 10 PC by importing them from your backup.
- Personalise your computer by configuring settings like the wallpaper and other visual elements of your desktop and the operating system.
Conclusion
Congratulations! Congratulations, you have completed the Windows 11 downgrade to Windows 10 process. The detailed methods in this article should help you make the switch while keeping your data safe. If you’re having trouble with Windows 10, downgrading can help with compatibility difficulties, aesthetic preferences, and stability issues. If you want to avoid problems in the future, you should always keep your system and data backed up.
FAQs:
Can I safely revert to Windows 10 from Windows 11?
Yes, you can downgrade to Windows 10 securely by following the instructions in this article. A backup should be made before moving on, though.
Do I need a product key for Windows 10 in order to downgrade?
If Windows 10 was previously installed and activated on your machine, you should be able to downgrade without entering a product key. Nonetheless, Microsoft’s customer service should be contacted if activation problems arise.
If I upgrade to Windows 10 through the Windows Insider Programme, may I later revert back to Windows 11?
The Windows Insider Programme upgrade to version 11 is compatible with the downgrade procedure. You can easily revert to Windows 10 by following the instructions here.
When I revert back to Windows 10, will I lose all of my programmes?
When you upgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10, all of your programmes and apps will be deleted. After the downgrade, you’ll need to reinstall them, so save any licence keys or installation files you’ll need.
After downgrading to Windows 10, is it possible to revert to Windows 11?
If you change your mind about upgrading to Windows 11 in the future, you can do so by following Microsoft’s instructions. Before upgrading to Windows 11, however, you should check that your PC fulfils the OS’s minimal requirements.
