Introduction

Upgrading to a new operating system version can sometimes lead to unexpected issues, such as sluggish performance, application incompatibilities, or system instability. If you've recently updated to Windows 11 24H2 and are experiencing such problems, reverting to the previous version, 23H2, might be a viable solution. This article outlines three effective methods to downgrade from Windows 11 24H2 to 23H2, providing detailed steps and considerations for each approach.

Method 1: Using the 'Go Back' Feature

Overview:

Windows 11 includes a built-in 'Go Back' feature that allows users to revert to the previous version within a limited timeframe after an upgrade. This method is straightforward and preserves your personal files and settings.

Steps:
  1. Open Settings:
  • Press INLINECODE0 to launch the Settings app.
  1. Navigate to Recovery Options:
  • Click on 'System' in the left-hand menu.
  • Select 'Recovery' from the options.
  1. Initiate the Downgrade:
  • Under 'Recovery options,' click the 'Go back' button.
  • Follow the on-screen prompts, providing a reason for the rollback when prompted.
  • Confirm your choice and allow the system to restart and complete the rollback process.
Considerations:
  • Time Sensitivity: The 'Go Back' feature is available only for 10 days following the upgrade. After this period, the option will be disabled, and the previous version's files may be deleted.
  • Data Preservation: This method retains your personal files and most settings, but it's advisable to back up important data before proceeding.

Method 2: Performing a Clean Installation Using an ISO File

Overview:

If the 'Go Back' option is unavailable, performing a clean installation of Windows 11 23H2 using an ISO file is an alternative. This method involves reinstalling the operating system and requires careful preparation.

Steps:
  1. Backup Important Data:
  • Ensure all essential files are backed up to an external drive or cloud storage, as this process will erase all data on the system drive.
  1. Obtain the Windows 11 23H2 ISO:
  • Since Microsoft may not provide older ISO files directly, you can use third-party tools like UUP Dump to download the necessary files. UUP Dump allows you to create custom Windows ISO files by downloading the latest updates directly from Microsoft's servers.
  1. Create Installation Media:
  • Use a tool like Rufus to create a bootable USB drive:
    • Insert a USB drive with at least 8GB capacity.
    • Open Rufus and select the downloaded ISO file.
    • Configure the partition scheme (MBR for BIOS or GPT for UEFI) and file system (NTFS or FAT32) as appropriate.
    • Click 'Start' to create the bootable drive.
    1. Install Windows 11 23H2:
    • Insert the bootable USB into your PC and restart.
    • Access the boot menu (usually by pressing INLINECODE1 , INLINECODE2 , or INLINECODE3 during startup) and select the USB drive.
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows 11 23H2, choosing 'Custom Installation' and formatting the system drive when prompted.
Considerations:
  • Data Loss: This method will erase all data on the system drive. Ensure you have a complete backup before proceeding.
  • Driver Installation: After installation, you may need to reinstall drivers and software applications.
  • Activation: Ensure you have your Windows activation key available, as it may be required during installation.

Method 3: Utilizing the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)

Overview:

If your system is experiencing significant issues post-upgrade, such as boot failures, the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) can be used to uninstall the latest feature update and revert to the previous version.

Steps:
  1. Access WinRE:
  • Method 1:
    • Turn on your PC and, as it begins to boot, press and hold the power button to force a shutdown. Repeat this process two or three times until the system enters WinRE.
  • Method 2:
    • If you can reach the login screen, hold the INLINECODE4 key while clicking 'Restart' to enter WinRE.
    1. Navigate to Uninstall Updates:
    • In WinRE, select 'Troubleshoot.'
    • Click on 'Advanced options.'
    • Choose 'Uninstall Updates.'
    1. Uninstall the Latest Feature Update:
    • Select 'Uninstall latest feature update.'
    • Follow the prompts to confirm and initiate the uninstallation.
Considerations:
  • Data Preservation: This method typically retains personal files, but some applications may need to be reinstalled.
  • Bootability: This approach is particularly useful if the system is unbootable through normal means.

Conclusion

Downgrading from Windows 11 24H2 to 23H2 is feasible through several methods, each with its own considerations:

  • 'Go Back' Feature: Ideal for recent upgrades within the 10-day window, offering a straightforward rollback with minimal data loss.
  • Clean Installation: Suitable when the 'Go Back' option is unavailable, requiring a complete reinstall and careful data backup.
  • Windows Recovery Environment: Best for systems experiencing severe issues post-upgrade, allowing for the uninstallation of the latest update.

Before proceeding with any downgrade method, ensure you have backed up all important data and understand the implications of each approach. If uncertain, consulting with a professional or seeking assistance from Microsoft's support channels is recommended.

Additional Resources

For more detailed guidance and community support, consider visiting the following resources:

These articles provide step-by-step instructions and user experiences that can further assist you in the downgrade process.