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How to Downgrade Windows 11 to Windows 10 without Losing data?
Hi all,
I successfully installed Windows 11 on an unsupported PC that was running with Windows 10 in the past. After 30 days of trial and testing, it seems Windows 11 is not the right option me. Now, I want to downgrade Windows 11 to Windows 10 on my PC but the Go Back option was no longer available as 10 days has been pasted.
What is the right option to downgrade Windows 11 to Windows 10 after 10 days without losing data? It could be great the recommended solution could be easy enough for non tech savvy.
Thanks
Backing up your data before downgrading from Windows 11 to Windows 10 is crucial to avoid losing important files during the clean installation process. Start by identifying the files, folders, and software settings that you want to preserve.
After backup, create a Windows 10 bootable USB and reinstall Windows 10 to the computer from bootable USB. If you need more details, please follow the steps listed in this online tutorial:
https://www.recodie.com/downgrade-windows-11-to-windows-10
P.S. It takes about 30 mins to complete the install.
To downgrade Windows 11 to Windows 10 after 10 days, use the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB. Run setup from the USB and choose "Keep personal files and apps" during installation. And for Windows 10 Pro Retail Key, contact partner microsoft Hy-pestKey. Backup your data first for safety. This method is simple and preserves your files.
For me, Windows 11 was a slight change in the look and a 2-3x increase in the number of mouse clicks to do the things I do all the time. It adds extra mouse clicks to print a file! If they wanted a smaller right-click menu, there should have been a way to customize it. I might as well get a Mac, the "our way or the highway" option (I occasionally do remote tech support for a buddy who's saddled with a Mac). Because mine was a home computer and I work 6 days a week, 10 days to test Win11 equates to about 5 hours, which was a ridiculously short time to see if I liked the new interface. Thanks to all above for the advice and instructions! A 1-2 hour reinstall will save me many more hours in the future.
Backing up your data before downgrading from Windows 11 to Windows 10 is crucial to avoid losing important files during the clean installation process. Start by identifying the files, folders, and software settings that you want to preserve.
After backup, create a Windows 10 bootable USB and reinstall Windows 10 to the computer from bootable USB. If you need more details, please follow the steps listed in this online tutorial:
https://www.recodie.com/downgrade-windows-11-to-windows-10
P.S. It takes about 30 mins to complete the install.
- From my own experience, I've gone through this process a couple of times. The first time I did it, I was nervous about losing my data, but I made sure to back everything up beforehand. After a clean install, it kind of felt like getting a new laptop! Everything was fresh, and Windows 10 just felt more familiar and comfortable.
I know the thought of a clean install can be daunting, but if you follow the steps closely and take the time to back up your data, you're in for a much better experience with Windows 10. Plus, it offers a lot of reliability and ease of use that many of us appreciate!
So yeah, I'd definitely say your plan is on point! Just prepare a bit before you dive in, and you should be good to go. DevinZhang If the 10-day window for downgrading from Windows 11 to Windows 10 has passed, you will need to perform a clean installation of Windows 10.
How to downgrade Windows 11 to 10 after 10 days:
Step 1: Visit the official Microsoft Windows 10 Download page here. Click on Download tool now under the "Create Windows 10 installation media" section.
Step 2: Open the Media Creation Tool you just downloaded. Choose Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC and click Next.
Step 3: Once the PC boots from the USB, the Windows Setup screen will appear. Select your language, time, and keyboard preferences, then click Next. Click Install Now.
After installation, Windows will automatically install most drivers, but you may need to download and install some manually from your device manufacturer’s website.
Potential risks of downgrading from Windows 11 to Windows 10：
- Data Loss: Any installation carries the risk of data loss. Incomplete backups may result in losing valuable files.
- Driver Issues: Some hardware may have updates specifically designed for Windows 11, which might lead to compatibility issues with Windows 10.
- User Settings: Certain user settings and configurations may be reverted to defaults, requiring you to reconfigure your system after the downgrade.
By following the steps carefully and ensuring you have a full backup, you can safely downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10.
- Windows 10 generally runs smoother and requires fewer resources compared to Windows 11. If you notice your new laptop lagging or struggling with multitasking, going back to Windows 10 can help free up some of that CPU and RAM. In my own experience, once I made the switch back, my laptop felt much snappier!
DevinZhang I recently downgraded Windows 11 to 10 on new laptop as Windows 11 consumes much more resource than Windows 10. In addition, I don't like the design as well. In fact, I am more conformtable with the legacy style of Windows 10.
- To downgrade Windows 11 to 10 on a new laptop:
- Back up all important data to an external drive.
- Make a bootable Windows 10 install USB from ISO file.
- Boot the computer from USB and start installing Windows 10 on new laptop.
- Finish system settings and copy data to to Windows 10.
This is a quite safe way to downgrade Windows 11 to Windows 10 on a new laptop.
If I do this, do I have to reinstall the drivers?
When you downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10, sometimes drivers don't play nice. Make sure you have all the latest Windows 10 drivers ready to go. You can usually find these on your manufacturer's website. I once downgraded and ended up with a funky Wi-Fi issue 'cause I didn't have the right drivers. Not cool!
Keep your Windows 10 product key handy. If your Windows 10 was activated before, it should automatically activate again once you reinstall it, but sometimes you may need the key. You can find your product key using tools like ProduKey or check on the packaging if you have a retail version.
Don't forget that you'll likely lose some of your personalization settings. Windows 11 has different themes and layouts, so be prepared to tweak things back to your liking once you're all set up on Windows 10. Make sure the apps you love are still supported on Windows 10. While most apps remain compatible, it's worth double-checking your critical ones. I ran into one of those "not supported" walls once and had to hunt for alternatives.- Downgrading from Windows 11 to Windows 10 can be a pretty smooth ride if you do it right, but there are definitely some bumps you wanna avoid along the way. First off, dude, don't go diving into this downgrade without a solid backup. Seriously, back up all your important files. You can use OneDrive, an external hard drive, or whatever suits your fancy. Best case scenario, nothing goes wrong, but if it does, you don't wanna lose anything precious.
Before you even think about rolling back, check if your hardware is good to go for Windows 10. Sometimes, older devices have issues with drivers or functionality on newer OS versions. You can hit up the Microsoft website and find compatibility info if you're unsure.
