If a recent Windows update started causing issues—maybe your PC feels slower, drivers stopped working, or certain apps won’t open—you can usually roll things back to how they were before. This guide covers the easiest way to do it, plus a few backup options in case the main one isn’t available anymore.
Method 1: Use the Built-in “Go Back” Option (Easiest)
This is the fastest and simplest way to undo a major update, as long as you’re still within the time limit (usually around 10 days).
Step 1: Open Settings
Press Windows + I, or click Start → Settings
Step 2: Go to Recovery
- Windows 11: System → Recovery
- Windows 10: Update & Security → Recovery
Step 3: Click “Go back”
Under Recovery options, click Go back if it’s available.
Step 4: Choose a reason
Windows will ask why you’re rolling back—just pick whatever fits your situation.
Step 5: Follow the prompts
You’ll see a few warnings, like:
- Apps you installed recently might be removed
- Some settings will reset
- It’s a good idea to back up your files
Step 6: Start the rollback
Click Go back to earlier build and let your PC do its thing.
⏱️ This usually takes anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour.
Method 2: Uninstall a Specific Update (For Smaller Updates)
If the problem came from a minor update instead of a big version change, you can remove it directly.
Step 1: Open Settings
Go to Update & Security → Windows Update
Step 2: View update history
Click Update history
Step 3: Uninstall updates
Select Uninstall updates
Step 4: Remove the update
- Find the most recent update (look for the KB number)
- Right-click it and choose Uninstall
This works best for:
- Security updates
- Driver updates
- Smaller patches
Method 3: Use System Restore (If You Have It Enabled)
If you had System Restore turned on before the update, this is another solid option.
Step 1: Open System Restore
Search for Create a restore point, then click System Restore
Step 2: Pick a restore point
Choose one from before the update was installed
Step 3: Start the restore
Follow the steps and let your PC restart
This will:
- Roll back system settings
- Remove recent updates and drivers
- Leave your personal files alone
Method 4: Use Advanced Startup (If Your PC Won’t Boot)
If your computer won’t start properly after an update, try this:
Step 1: Enter Recovery Mode
- Restart your PC a couple of times during startup, or
- Hold Shift + Restart
Step 2: Go to advanced options
Navigate to:
Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Uninstall Updates
Step 3: Choose what to remove
- Latest quality update (smaller updates)
- Latest feature update (major updates)
What Happens After You Revert?
- Your system goes back to the previous version
- Apps installed after the update may be removed
- Settings changed by the update are reset
- Your personal files should still be there (but always back them up just in case)
Helpful Tips
- Don’t wait too long: You usually only get about 10 days to roll back
- Back up your files: It’s always better to be safe
- Remember your password: You may need it after the rollback
- Pause updates if needed: This can stop the same update from reinstalling
- Check drivers first: Sometimes the issue isn’t Windows—it’s a driver
Common Questions
Why don’t I see the “Go back” option?
It’s usually because the time limit expired, the old files were removed, or the update was too small to roll back.
Will I lose my files?
No, your personal files should stay. You might lose apps or drivers installed after the update, though.
Can I roll back multiple updates?
No, this only works for the most recent major update.
What if nothing fixes the problem?
You can try:
- System Restore
- Resetting your PC
- A clean Windows install (last resort)
Quick Recap
- Use Go back for major updates
- Use Uninstall updates for smaller fixes
- Try System Restore if it’s available
- Use Advanced Startup if your PC won’t boot
Final Thoughts
Sometimes a Windows update just doesn’t go smoothly, and that’s frustrating. The good news is you don’t have to spend hours troubleshooting—you can usually roll things back and get your system running нормально again pretty quickly.
Just remember, that rollback option won’t be there forever. If something feels off after an update, it’s best to deal with it sooner rather than later.
