How to Roll Back Windows 11: A Comprehensive Guide

If you recently upgraded to Windows 11 and are experiencing issues, you may be considering rolling back to your previous version of Windows. This guide will walk you through the process of reverting your system to a previous state, provide additional notes, and address common issues that may arise during the process.

Steps to Reverse a Windows 11 Upgrade

Check the Timeframe:

You can only roll back to your previous version within 10 days of upgrading to Windows 11. After this period, the option to revert may no longer be available.

Open Settings:

Click on the Start menu, and select Settings. You can also press Windows I.

Go to System Recovery:

In the Settings window, click on System. Scroll down and select Recovery.

Select 'Go Back':

Under the Recovery options section, you should see an option that says Go back. Click on this option.

Follow the On-Screen Instructions:

Windows will ask you why you want to go back. Select a reason and click Next. Follow the prompts to complete the rollback process. This may take some time, and your PC will restart during the process.

Check for Updates (Optional):

After rolling back, it's a good idea to check for updates to ensure your system is secure and running smoothly.

Additional Notes

Backup Your Files: It's a good practice to back up your important files before making changes to your operating system. Reinstall Apps: Some apps installed after upgrading to Windows 11 may need to be reinstalled after the rollback. Proceed with a Clean Install if the 10-day period has passed: If the 10-day period has passed, you may need to perform a clean installation of your previous Windows version using installation media. Make sure to back up your data before proceeding with a clean install.

Solving Common Issues Affecting Windows 11 Updates

There are a few factors that can cause issues with Windows 11 updates, such as software distribution folder corruption or malicious software. Here are some solutions to address these problems.

Quick Solutions for Rolling Back to Previous Windows Version

Use Windows Boot Genius: This is a tool designed to address booting issues arising during updates and assist in the recovery of crashed systems. It can help fix "undoing changes made to your computer" errors. Try Booting into Safe Mode: Access Safe Mode on your PC. During the boot-up or startup process, press F11 when the Undoing Changes error message appears. Navigate to the advanced options. Choose the Enable Safe Mode option to initiate Windows in safe mode and implement the necessary fixes.

Removing the Software Distribution Folder

Remove the Software Distribution folder to easily resolve the "undoing changes issue." This folder contains various update files and patches, and it may contain corrupted files that need to be deleted. Press Windows R, type cmd, and hit Enter. Type the following commands line by line: net stop wuauserv net stop bits net stop cryptSvc net stop msiserver Launch File Explorer from the system. Navigate to the Windows/SoftwareDistribution Folder. Select all files using Ctrl A and delete them. Reopen Command Prompt as an Administrator. Input the following commands line by line to restart all services: net start wuauserv net start bits net start cryptSvc net start msiserver Restart your PC.

Conclusion

Rolling back a Windows 11 upgrade can be a necessary step if you encounter issues with the new operating system. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully reverse your upgrade and revert to your previous version of Windows. Additionally, taking the necessary precautions and addressing common issues can help ensure a smooth transition.