It's highly likely you meant "How do I downgrade from a newer version of Windows (like Windows 11) to Windows 10?". Windows 109 does not exist. If you want to go back to Windows 10, follow these steps, assuming you recently upgraded from Windows 10 to a newer version:
Steps to Downgrade (Roll Back) to Windows 10:
-
Ensure Power Connection: If your computer is a laptop, make sure it's plugged into a power outlet. This prevents interruptions during the downgrade process.
-
Open Settings: Click the Start button. You'll find the Start button typically in the bottom-left corner of the screen.
-
Navigate to Recovery Options:
- Click on the "Settings" icon (it looks like a gear).
- In the Settings app, go to "System."
- In the System menu, find and select "Recovery."
-
Initiate the Downgrade: Under the "Recovery options" section, you should see an option labeled "Go back to Windows [X]" (where [X] is the version of Windows you upgraded from, usually Windows 10). Click the "Go back" button associated with that option.
-
Follow On-Screen Instructions: The system will guide you through the rest of the downgrade process. You'll likely be asked why you're downgrading (feedback for Microsoft) and will be reminded to back up your important files. Backup your data before proceeding as a precaution.
Important Considerations:
-
Time Limit: There's typically a limited time window (usually 10 days) after upgrading to a newer version of Windows to use the "Go back" feature. If this time has passed, this method will not work.
-
Backup: Before starting the downgrade, back up all your important files. Although the process should preserve your data, it's always better to be safe than sorry. Use an external hard drive, cloud storage (like OneDrive), or another backup method you trust.
-
Clean Install (If "Go Back" Fails): If the "Go back" option isn't available or the downgrade fails, you might need to perform a clean install of Windows 10. This involves downloading the Windows 10 installation media from Microsoft's website and reinstalling the operating system. Warning: A clean install will erase all data on your system drive. Ensure you have backups before proceeding.
-
Drivers and Compatibility: After downgrading, you might need to reinstall some drivers for your hardware to function correctly. Download the latest Windows 10 drivers from the manufacturer's website (e.g., for your graphics card, network adapter, etc.). Check for compatibility issues with older software you plan to use.
