In October 2021, Microsoft released what is, to date, its latest version of its operating system: Windows 11. This new chapter in its history was met with mixed reactions: while many users enthusiastically rushed to install it, many others remained hesitant. In fact, some have even reversed their decision, opting to downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10.
The reasons are varied. It's true that numerous bugs were reported during the first few weeks , which were gradually fixed. These errors may have overshadowed some of the new features and improvements included in the new version. It's also possible that the new design hasn't quite won over users who were already very comfortable with Windows 10.
Some of the new features in Windows 11 are related to aesthetics , offering many options to customize the system's appearance according to our tastes and preferences. Among these is the option to retain the Windows 10 design.
It also incorporates significant security improvements . Among them is the TPM chip , a safeguard against malware infecting a computer and spreading rapidly across a network. This TPM module is integrated into the motherboard, protecting encryption keys, user credentials, and other sensitive data.
For the rest, Windows 11 offers a new user interface, a new way of organizing the desktop, the ability to install Android applications, as well as new ways to use widgets and get the most out of them.
Which is better, Windows 10 or Windows 11? We're not going to judge which version is better here. There are many opinions and points of view on this matter, with arguments for and against. In any case, everyone has the right to change their mind and correct themselves if they believe it's the right thing to do. So, whatever the reason, let's see what steps we need to follow to undo this action and return to Windows 10 from Windows 11.
During the 10 days of trial
The truth is that while Microsoft encouraged everyone to install Windows 11, it also considered offering its users the option to revert to Windows 10 after trying the new version. The problem is that it only offers a 10-day window after upgrading to Windows 11. After that period, the option disappears. The method Microsoft offers is as follows:
- First of all, we must enter the Windows settings.
- There we go to the section "System" and choose the option "Recovery".
- In this section we find the options to recover or reset Windows. There we have to select the "Back" option (although it will only appear if we are still within the 10-day window).
- If we are within the deadline, a window will appear in which Microsoft asks us indicate the reason why we have decided to return to Windows 10. This information is very important for Microsoft as it provides you with the keys to fix possible errors and shortcomings in Windows 11.
- Before proceeding, various notices are displayed about configuration changes or installed applications that will be lost with the change. Then we click on "Next".
- Finally, all that remains is to click on the button "Go back to Windows 10» and wait for our team to carry out the process.
However, many users may have made the decision to switch back to Windows 10 long after that courtesy period expired. What can be done in that case?
After 10 days of trial
If you decide to downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10 after the mandatory 10-day grace period, you'll need to perform a clean installation to revert to the previous version . Here are the steps to follow:
- First of all, we have to go to the windows 10 page and download the media creation tool.
- There we must execute the file Media Creation Tool, accepting the conditions of service.
- When the message appears "What do you want to do?", select Upgrade this PC now and click on "Next". This will start the download of the latest version of Windows 10 that is available. The duration of the process will depend on our internet connection speed.
- Once the download is complete, click on "Next", after which the installation wizard will start *.
- Finally, we must close all the applications that are running and save all the files. Once this is done, we can click on "Install".
You have to be patient as the installation of Windows 10 may take some time. During this last step it is possible that our computer restarts a few times.
(*) Please note: before finishing the installation process, we will have the opportunity to see a summary of our selections. There, in the "Change what to keep" option, we have to select "Nothing".