Updating Windows sometimes feels like a gamble. You go ahead and install the latest, shiny version, only to realize some key features are missing or, worse, everything just feels laggier. Maybe hardware isn’t playing nice, or certain apps crash randomly. If you find yourself in that boat and want to go back to the previous version, like Windows 11 23H2, here’s how to do it. Just a heads-up: it’s not as straightforward as clicking “Undo, ” so a backup of your stuff is highly recommended before messing with system files.
How to Roll Back Windows 11 24H2 to 23H2
Check if you can use the rollback option first
Okay, so before diving into downloads and ISO files, see if Windows means it. If you’re within the 10-day window after the update, you might have a quick rollback option. It’s kinda weird, but Windows does keep that window open for some users. To test this, go to Settings > System > Recovery. If you see the “Go back” button there—great! That’s a lot easier and less risky. Just follow the prompts, pick a reason, and let it do its thing. But if this isn’t there or it’s past the grace period, time for plan B.
Method 1: Downloading the Windows 11 23H2 ISO and reinstall
This is the more involved path, but honestly, it’s reliable. You’ll need an ISO file for the previous Windows build, which you can find on sites like os.click. Just make sure you pick the right edition (Home, Pro, etc.) and architecture. Once you’ve got that, you need to create a bootable USB or DVD—using tools like Rufus or Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool (found at Microsoft’s official site).
For creating a bootable drive with Rufus:
- Download Rufus from rufus.ie
- Plug in your USB drive (at least 8GB recommended)
- Open Rufus, select your device, then choose the downloaded ISO
- Start the process—this will wipe the USB and make it bootable
Method 2: Boot from the USB to reinstall
Once you’ve got your bootable media ready, restart your PC. Hit the BIOS/UEFI setup key (commonly F2, F12, Del, or Esc depending on your motherboard/laptop).Change the boot order to prioritize your USB or DVD, then save and restart. Windows should boot from the media, and you’ll get the option to install Windows. Make sure to select the custom install option—this is where you can uninstall the current version and install the older build. Just remember, this will wipe your system drive unless you back up.
It’s a bit nerve-wracking, but on one setup it failed the first time, then worked after a reboot. Windows sometimes plays hard to get with bootable media, so if it refuses to recognize your USB, check the BIOS settings or recreate the bootable drive. Because of course, Windows has to make it harder than necessary.
Additional tip: Keep the backup handy
If the restore process goes south, having a backup of all your important files, login info, or passwords stored in a password manager can save the day. Also, taking a full drive image with tools like Macrium Reflect or similar makes recovering much faster if things go sideways.
10-Day Roll Back: For Future Reference
This feature can save a lot of headache if you’re quick enough. If you’re past the 10-day window, it’s unfortunately too late for this in-place rollback, so the ISO method remains the best bet. To use the built-in rollback:
- Open Settings (Win + I) then go to System > Recovery
- Look for the Go back option—if it’s there, click on it
- Select your reason (or skip), then confirm, and Windows will handle the rollback in the background.
One note: don’t turn off your PC or interrupt the process. Sometimes it takes a bit, and yeah, it’s a hassle if the button isn’t there anymore. That’s why creating regular backups before major updates makes sense.
Wrap-up
Rolling back isn’t exactly a walk in the park, especially if the in-place options aren’t available or the window is closed. But with a bit of prep—ISO files, bootable media, backups—it gets manageable. Honestly, sometimes the fix is just to do a clean install of what worked before. Not fun, but at least you get a fresh start without the bugs or missing features.
Summary
- Check if Windows offers a quick rollback option first, before anything else.
- If not, download the ISO for the previous version and create a bootable USB.
- Reboot, boot from USB, and do a clean install of the older build.
- Remember to backup your files and create system images if possible.
- Be patient—these processes can take a bit, and Windows can be stubborn.
Fingers crossed this helps
Hopefully, this sheds some light on how to dodge the buggy update and get back to something more stable. Just remember, backups are your friend here. Good luck!