How to Roll Back Windows Updates: Fix Issues Quickly

Windows updates are generally considered the lifeblood of an operating system, akin to regular check-ups at the doctor’s office. They're designed to keep your system running smoothly, introducing new features, enhancing security, and fixing bugs. However, as many users have experienced, updates can sometimes lead to unexpected complications, including system slowdowns, crashes, or even the dreaded Blue Screen of Death (BSOD).
If you've encountered issues after a Windows update, such as with the troublesome KB5043145, fear not! Rolling back updates can often restore order to your digital realm. This guide provides detailed instructions on how to roll back these updates—and why it's essential to do so when necessary.

Why Roll Back Windows Updates?​

Microsoft regularly rolls out updates to improve Windows performance. However, sometimes these updates can be half-baked, especially large ones like the recent Windows 11 24H2 update. Performing a rollback can help you:

1. Mitigate Problems: Fix bugs or issues introduced by a problematic update.
2. Regain Stability: Restore your system to a previously functioning state without the new issues.
3. Avoid Major Repairs: Prevent the need for more drastic measures, like reinstalling Windows.

Checklist Before Rolling Back​

Before you roll back updates, it's prudent to perform a quick audit to rule out any simple issues. Here’s a handy checklist:

• Disk Space: Ensure that you have enough hard drive space for the update process.
• Restart: Sometimes, a simple reboot could resolve the issue.
• External Devices: Disconnect any unnecessary external hardware, like USB drives, that could be causing conflicts.
• Device Manager: Check for any reported conflicts or errors in the Device Manager.
• Antivirus Interference: Temporarily disable any non-essential antivirus or anti-malware tools that might be blocking the update.
• Service Activation: Make sure the Windows Update service is running:
  • Press Start and type services.msc.
  • Locate and ensure the 'Windows Update' service is set to Manual or Automatic.

Methods to Roll Back Updates​

Option 1: Use the Windows Troubleshooter​

Modern Windows versions come with built-in troubleshooting tools. Here’s how to access them:

• For Windows 11:
  1. Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot.
  2. Click on Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find the Windows Update option and click Run.
• For Windows 10:
  1. Open Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
  2. Click on Additional troubleshooters.
  3. Select Windows Update and follow the prompts.

Option 2: Use System Restore​

System Restore can take your PC back to a time before the problematic update was applied:

1. Press Start and type “restore point” to find Create a restore point.
2. In the System Protection tab, click on System Restore.
3. Choose a restore point created before the update and click Next.
4. Confirm your choice, and the system will reboot to complete the restore process.

Option 3: Reset Windows Update Tool​

When conventional methods fail, third-party tools can help:

1. Download the Reset Windows Update Tool.
2. Unzip the tool and run wureset.exe as an admin.
3. Select “Restore Windows Update Components” and follow the prompts.

Option 4: Manual Update Installation​

If a specific update is failing:

1. Find the KB number of the problematic update.
2. Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog.
3. Search for the update and download it manually.
4. Install it as you would any other application.

Option 5: Resetting Update Services​

If all else fails, you can manually reset update services:

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type the following commands one at a time:
   

    net stop bits net stop wuauserv Dism.exe /online /Cleanup-Image /StartComponentCleanup sfc /scannow net start bits net start wuauserv

3. Try to reapply the problematic update.

Last Resort: Reinstall Windows​

If none of the above methods can resolve your issues, consider reinstalling Windows. This should be viewed as a last resort due to the potential loss of data and settings.

Conclusion​

Rolling back Windows updates can seem daunting, but armed with the right knowledge, you can simplify the process and regain control of your system. The intricacies of Windows updates remind us of how technology is a double-edged sword: capable of empowering our computing experiences while sometimes delivering unexpected challenges. If you feel overwhelmed, remember that the Windows community is here to support you on your journey—so don’t hesitate to reach out on forums for help!
For further assistance on Windows updates and troubleshooting, dive into related articles or reach out to your fellow forum members. Happy computing!

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Source: PCWorld How (and why) to roll back Windows updates on your PC