Don’t like Windows 10? Here is How To Roll Back!

When Microsoft launched the Windows 10 upgrade, the tech community was excited to try it out. Many of us regular users, on the other hand, feel somewhat hesitant when trying out new upgrades especially if we love the older version. You may have signed up for the upgrade already, but cannot bring yourself to go through the process.

So what is the problem?

However, Microsoft has made it difficult for users with a previous version of Windows to work if you decide not to install Windows 10. Here is what you would experience.

  • You will get a message for Windows Update saying that the Windows 10 upgrade is ready to be installed.
  • When checking for updates you may find that you aren’t able to complete it.
  • Some applications may not work with previous Windows versions.  

Have You Already Upgraded?

If you thought Windows `10 would be a better choice, and have already upgraded, and now want to roll back, here is a problem – chances are that Microsoft has created a lockdown situation for you from where there is no coming back.

If, however, you do not want to give in and want a decent shot at being able to use your current Windows for a while, then you can try the following method. The steps are easy to follow, so do not worry if you are not tech-savvy.

The only catch is that the method does not come with a 100% chance of working, but it is definitely worth a try.

How to go about it?

Do not try to do this in a hurry. It would take a while so you need to do it when you don’t have to rush elsewhere.  Here are the steps to help you roll back your Windows version.

  • Begin by turning off the Automatic Update. Now, visit the Windows Update section under the System and Security menu. Here, you need to choose the setting which lets you check for available updates without downloading them automatically. You can choose if to install them according to your convenience.
  • Now, you should try hiding the Windows 10 update. You will be able to view a list of all the available updates in the Windows Update section. If you notice an option referring to the Windows 10 upgrade, then right click on it and choose Hide Update from the drop-down menu.
  • Next, you need to delete all the installation files from the computer. Visit File Explorer and then your default drive. Normally, that is the C:// drive but depending on your configuration that could be different. If you are unsure, it is the Drive where your system files are.  From there, you can choose the Disk Cleanup option. Click on the option, ‘Cleanup System Files’ and then check the ‘Temporary Installation Files’ button. The process will start once you click OK.
  • Eliminate the GWX (Get Windows X) patches using the Add or Remove programs in your Control Panel. Under View Installed Updates, search for KB 2952664, KB 2976978 and KB 3035583. If you spot even one of these, uninstall them.
  • At this point, Windows will give you a prompt asking you to reboot. Go for it and be patient because the rebooting process might take a while.
  • Once you can access the computer again after the reboot, you need to check the ‘disable’ option for the GWX patches permanently. Visit Windows Update so that you can hide the patches, KB 2976978, KB 2952664 and KB 3035583.

You can reboot your computer once more and then find out if you have managed to solve the issue!