So, you’ve taken the plunge into Windows 11 24H2 expecting a shiny futuristic OS, and instead, you’re greeted by sluggish load times or irritating app crashes. Perhaps a critical app isn’t playing nice, or the new features just aren't meaningful to your workflow. Whatever the reason, you want to reverse course and return to the warm, familiar embrace of Windows 11 23H2. You’re not alone—complaints and rollback queries have made this a recurring theme in the Windows community.
Don’t sweat it! Downgrading is entirely possible, and with some careful steps, you can do so without losing your precious data. Let’s unpack three foolproof methods tailored to suit different scenarios.
The process retains most of your files, settings, and customizations; it essentially rewinds the clock. However, it works only if the rollback period hasn’t expired and the Windows.old folder hasn’t been deleted.
If the “Go Back” feature isn’t available, or system instability post-upgrade prevents accessing regular settings, WinRE is indispensable. Additionally, it’s especially valuable for troubleshooting systems stuck in boot loops.
There’s no cleaner slate than freshly wiping and reinstalling the OS. You avoid remnants of malfunctioning files or settings that could clutter rollback processes. However, this method is best suited to users comfortable handling detailed OS installations and backups.
What’s Your Downgrade Experience?
Have you successfully rolled back to Windows 11 23H2? Share your tips, tricks, or frustrations in the comments section below—there’s always strength in numbers. Tech journeys are better traveled together!
Source: Appuals How to Downgrade from Windows 11 24H2 to 23H2 Without Losing Data?
Don’t sweat it! Downgrading is entirely possible, and with some careful steps, you can do so without losing your precious data. Let’s unpack three foolproof methods tailored to suit different scenarios.
Method 1: The Magic of the “Go Back” Button
If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 11 24H2, this method will be your saving grace. Windows stores your old operating system files in a Windows.old folder, and for a short time after updating (usually 10 days by default), you can revert to your previous version with a few clicks. Here’s how:- Launch Settings: Open the Start Menu and click on the Settings app (gear icon).
- Navigate to Recovery: Once in Settings, select System from the left sidebar and scroll down to Recovery.
- Roll Back: Under the Recovery Options, find the “Go back” section and hit the Go Back button.
- Reason for Downgrade: A pop-up will ask why you’re rolling back—select a reason (e.g., “Performance Issues” or “Apps Not Working”) and click Next.
- Follow Prompts: Click through warnings and advice prompts until you reach the final Go Back button. Click it.
- Sit Tight: Your PC will restart and revert to Windows 11 23H2. Depending on your device, this could take several minutes—patience is key!
The process retains most of your files, settings, and customizations; it essentially rewinds the clock. However, it works only if the rollback period hasn’t expired and the Windows.old folder hasn’t been deleted.
Method 2: Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE): The Emergency Hatch
Let’s say you’ve entered the twilight zone where your computer refuses to boot properly after upgrading. In such cases, the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) could be your knight in shining armor. By utilizing the advanced recovery tools baked into Windows, you can remove problematic updates—even when the OS itself is stubbornly unresponsive.Steps to Revert Using WinRE:
- Enter Recovery Mode: Power on your computer. As soon as you see the Windows logo, press and hold the power button until the system shuts down. Repeat this “start-shutdown” cycle two or three times until you’re greeted by the Preparing Automatic Repair screen.
- Access WinRE: Allow Automatic Repair to launch and then select Advanced Options when prompted.
- Uninstall Updates:
- Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Uninstall Updates.
- Next, click Uninstall Latest Feature Update and confirm your choice.
- Restart and Rollback: After the system processes the uninstallation, restart your computer. Presto! You should now be running Windows 11 version 23H2.
If the “Go Back” feature isn’t available, or system instability post-upgrade prevents accessing regular settings, WinRE is indispensable. Additionally, it’s especially valuable for troubleshooting systems stuck in boot loops.
Method 3: Clean Installation for a Fresh Start
For those unlucky individuals who are past the rollback grace period or facing severely corrupted files, a clean installation of Windows 11 23H2 becomes your last resort. Yes, it’s the nuclear option, but sometimes starting fresh clears more issues than it creates.Key Steps for a Clean Install:
- Backup Everything That Matters:
Before anything else, back up documents, photos, or anything you’ll need later. Use external drives or cloud storage solutions like OneDrive or Google Drive. A clean install is akin to hitting the factory-reset button—everything on your drive will be wiped! - Prepare Installation Media:
- Download the official Windows 11 23H2 ISO from Microsoft (or trusted sources).
- Use a tool like Rufus to create a bootable USB drive. Plug in a USB (minimum 8GB), open Rufus, and load the ISO. Ensure you select the appropriate file system and partition scheme—MBR for legacy BIOS or GPT for UEFI-based systems.
- Install Windows 11 23H2:
- Plug in the bootable USB and restart your PC.
- Enter your BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing F2, F12, or DEL during startup).
- Set USB as the primary boot device, save changes, and exit.
- Windows setup will guide you through the installation process. Choose Custom Installation, and select or format the drive/partition for the OS installation.
- Post-Setup:
- Once the setup is complete, install drivers and restore your backed-up files.
- Install your favorite applications and patch Windows for updates.
There’s no cleaner slate than freshly wiping and reinstalling the OS. You avoid remnants of malfunctioning files or settings that could clutter rollback processes. However, this method is best suited to users comfortable handling detailed OS installations and backups.
Wrapping Up the Downgrade Journey
While it might seem scary, downgrading from Windows 11 24H2 to 23H2 can be streamlined if you understand your options. Here’s a quick recap:- Quick Revert? Use the “Go Back” button within 10 days of upgrading for a seamless rollback.
- Crisis Management? The Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) is your greatest ally during boot failures or stubborn upgrades.
- Starting Over? A clean installation is your best choice for those who prefer a fresh OS installation or are past the rollback windows.
What’s Your Downgrade Experience?
Have you successfully rolled back to Windows 11 23H2? Share your tips, tricks, or frustrations in the comments section below—there’s always strength in numbers. Tech journeys are better traveled together!
Source: Appuals How to Downgrade from Windows 11 24H2 to 23H2 Without Losing Data?