After the rollout of Windows 11’s significant 2024 update, many users have encountered a variety of frustrating issues, ranging from unstable internet connections to erratic system features. The situation has escalated to the point where Microsoft has needed to halt the update for certain users.
If you’re among those experiencing these difficulties with the Windows 11 24H2 update, there’s a way to ease your frustrations: you have the option to uninstall the update and restore your system to its previous state. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do this.
Important Note: While typically no data is lost during this procedure, there is always a minimal risk of unforeseen issues. We advise backing up any critical data—files you absolutely cannot afford to lose—to an external storage device before proceeding with the reversion. Though this step is not compulsory, it adds an extra layer of safety for your information in case anything goes awry.
Steps to Revert or Reset Windows 11
To begin the reset process, access the Settings menu (you can do this by pressing Windows key + I on your keyboard). In the left sidebar, click on System, then scroll down to select Recovery. Here, you’ll find various options for repairing Windows or reverting to a previous version:
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Scroll down to the bottom of the window and locate the Recovery options section. Click on Go back to remove the most recent Windows 11 update and return to the prior version you had. You won’t lose any applications that were pre-installed, although those added after upgrading to 24H2 will be removed.
If the Go back button appears inactive, it indicates that the required information is no longer available on your machine. In this case, you can opt for the Reset PC option instead. This might rectify the issues, but be aware that it may result in the loss of some applications.
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After you click to proceed with the reversion, Windows will start the preparation process. During the “Feedback” stage, click Next to continue.
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At the “Check for updates” screen, choose No thanks. Then at the “What you should know” screen, click Next. When prompted to keep your old password, click Next again. Continue this pattern throughout the prompts.
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Finally, click on Revert to a previous build. Windows 11 will begin the reversion process, and shortly, your system will return to the version that was installed prior to the 24H2 update.
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Once your PC restarts, log back into Windows 11 as usual. You should find that everything is functioning again. When Microsoft resolves the issues within Windows 11 24H2, you can consider updating once more.