Many, if not most users have recently updated their computer’s operating system from Windows 7 or 8 to Windows 10. If you prefer the previous version, you can undo the installation of Windows 10. After completing this process, your computer will be reverted to Windows 7 or 8 depending on the version you had before.

  • Click the Start button to open the Start menu.
  • Click the Settings option.
  • In Settings, click the Update & Security option.
  • Under Update & Security, select the Recovery option.
  • Depending on the version of Windows you upgraded from, there will be an option to Go back to Windows 7 or Go back to Windows 8.
  • Select the available option and follow the steps to complete the Windows 10 uninstallation process.

What if more than 30 days has passed since I upgraded to Windows 10?

If it’s been more than 30 days since you upgraded to Windows 10, the only way to revert to the previous version of Windows is to reinstall the original software.

The downgrading feature in Windows 10 is only available if you upgraded from a previous version of Windows. Furthermore, it must be less than 30 days since you upgraded.

  • How to erase my hard drive and start over?

Unfortunately, the process requires a clean installation (unsaved data is lost) and the older version of Windows on a disc or thumb drive.

If you have an OEM computer (e.g., Acer, ASUS, Dell, or HP), you likely have a hidden system recovery partition and don’t need a disc to restore your computer.

  • See our Windows definition for further information and related links.
  • Microsoft Windows 10 help and support.