How to Downgrade from Windows 11 24H2 to 23H2 Without Losing Data?

If you’ve upgraded to Windows 11 24H2 and are experiencing performance issues or simply prefer the previous version (23H2), downgrading is possible without losing your data. The process can be straightforward if done correctly.

The main reasons for downgrading often include dissatisfaction with new features, compatibility problems, or issues like slowdowns and crashes. Many users have successfully reverted to 23H2 by following specific steps to keep their files and settings intact.

This is a common issue, as many users share similar experiences in forums and community discussions. Once you understand the different methods and what they involve, you’ll be able to choose the best option for you, whether you’re still within the rollback period or need to do a clean install.

Method 1: Using the ‘Go Back’ Feature

This method is the simplest if you have upgraded to Windows 11 24H2 within the last 10 days.

1. Click on the Start Menu and select Settings (the gear icon).
   
2. In the Settings window, click on System in the left sidebar. Scroll down and select Recovery.
   
3. Under the Recovery options, look for the Go back section and click on the Go back button.
   
4. A window will pop up asking why you want to go back. Choose a reason and click Next.
5. You may be prompted with some tips about what to keep or lose. Click through these options, and finally, click on Go back to an earlier build to start the process.
   
6. Your PC will restart, and Windows will begin reverting to version 23H2. This process may take some time, so be patient.

This method is effective because it uses existing files from your previous installation stored in a folder called Windows.old, ensuring that your personal files and most settings remain intact.

Method 2: Using Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)

If your computer isn’t starting correctly after upgrading or if other methods fail, you can access WinRE to uninstall the update.

1. Power on your PC and immediately press and hold the power button as soon as you see the Windows logo. Repeat this process two more times until you see ‘Preparing Automatic Repair.’ Let it run until it takes you into WinRE.
2. Once in WinRE (Windows Recovery Environment), select Troubleshoot from the available options.
   
3. Within the Troubleshoot menu, choose Advanced options.
   
4. From the Advanced options menu, select Uninstall Updates to proceed.
   
5. Click on ‘Uninstall latest feature update’ and confirm your choice.
   
6. Follow any prompts that appear to complete the uninstallation process.
7. After completion, restart your computer. It should now boot into version 23H2.

WinRE provides a safe environment for troubleshooting serious issues that prevent normal startup or operation of Windows. By using this environment, you can remove updates without booting into Windows, which is crucial if system instability prevents access to regular settings.

Method 3: Clean Installation of Windows 11 23H2

If none of the previous methods work or if you’re beyond the rollback period (10 days), a clean installation may be necessary. This method requires backing up your data first.

1. Before proceeding, ensure that all important files are backed up externally or in cloud storage. This is crucial as a clean installation will erase all existing data on your primary drive.
2. Obtain the ISO file for Windows 11 version 23H2. You can find this on Microsoft’s official site or through trusted third-party sources like UUP Dump. Ensure that you download the correct version that matches your system architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).
   
3. Insert a USB flash drive (at least 8 GB) into your computer. Back up any important data on this drive as it will be formatted during this process.
4. Download Rufus from the official website and install it on your computer.
   
5. Open the Rufus application. It should automatically detect your USB drive.
   
6. Click on the Select button next to ‘Boot selection’ and browse to locate the downloaded Windows 11 23H2 ISO file.
   
7. For the Partition scheme, choose either MBR (Master Boot Record) or GPT (GUID Partition Table) based on your system’s firmware (BIOS or UEFI). If unsure, MBR is often more compatible.
   
8. Choose File System as NTFS or FAT32; NTFS is generally preferred for larger files.
9. Click on the Start button. Rufus will warn you that all data on the USB drive will be destroyed. Confirm this action to proceed. The process may take several minutes depending on the size of the ISO and speed of your USB drive. Once completed, Rufus will indicate that your bootable USB drive is ready.
   
10. Insert your USB drive into your PC and restart it. Access BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing F2, F12, DEL, or ESC during startup).
11. Change the boot order to prioritize booting from the USB drive. Save changes and exit BIOS/UEFI.
    
12. Upon booting from the USB drive, you will see the Windows Setup screen.
13. Follow the prompts in the installation wizard. When prompted about installation type, select ‘Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).’
    
    
14. Choose the partition where you want to install Windows; typically, this is your primary drive (C:). You can format it if necessary, but ensure you have backed up all data beforehand.
    
15. Follow through with the setup instructions until the installation is complete.
16. After installation, restore your backed-up files onto your new system setup.

This method ensures that you start fresh with no remnants of previous updates but requires careful data management beforehand since it will erase all files on your primary drive.