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How to uninstall Windows 10 and downgrade to Windows 8.1

by Editorial Team
by Editorial Team

This tip is about the how to uninstall Windows 10 and downgrade to Windows 8.1. So read this free guide, How to uninstall Windows 10 and downgrade to Windows 8.1 step by step. If you have query related to same article you may contact us.

How to uninstall Windows 10 and downgrade to Windows 8.1 – Guide

The software giant is betting that Windows 10 is one of the best operating systems you’ll want to use. After all, it brings family features of Windows 7, improves the shortcomings of Windows 8.x and is a free upgrade. Repeatedly, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said, “We want to go from users who need Windows to choosing Windows to loving Windows.” While Microsoft wants you to upgrade to Windows 10 and move on, we’re still in the early days of the new operating system. Since the launch, many users have reported some issues ranging from update issues, apps not opening, compatibility and network issues and more.

So, as you can see, Windows 10 doesn’t seem to be ready for many people yet. Today we will look at the options and instructions available for a successful downgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 8.1 if you feel that the operating system is not working for you. Microsoft expects to have Windows 10 running on 1 billion systems within three years. An admirable goal, but one that doesn’t take into account the user’s needs. Windows 10 has a lot in common with Windows 8.1; It’s a smooth experience to upgrade from this version.

Back up and create installation media

  • Unfortunately, Windows cannot preserve programs or settings when upgrading to an older version (only a newer one), so you’ll also want to get installation media for any crucial programs, especially those that require serial numbers. It’s also worth noting that Microsoft no longer supports Windows 8, only Windows 8.1, as it was part of an auto-update cycle.
  • once you supported up your PC, get the installation media for Windows itself. For Windows 8.1, Microsoft offers a download service that allows you to upload the installation files to a new DVD or even use a flash drive. If you are installing an older version of Windows, you will need the original disc (and possibly an external CD or DVD burner if your laptop does not have a disk drive). Alternatively, you can create a bootable USB drive with a Windows ISO.

    • Reverting to Windows 8.1

  • This usually requires typing a keyboard command to open the boot menu or entering BIOS (or UEFI on newer systems) and manually selecting the drive. Entering the BIOS usually requires pressing the Delete key – not the Backspace key – repeatedly on the keyboard immediately after viewing the computer’s splash screen (usually showing the computer’s manufacturer). Every computer is different, so refer to your motherboard manual if you built the computer yourself or your computer manual to see how to enter the BIOS.
  • Once you’re in the BIOS, you want to look for a boot order or a boot replacement. These settings let you choose which device your computer will try to load first. You want the Windows installation media to load before the hard drive. For discs, select your CD or DVD drive. For thumb drives, select USB or something similar. Again, all motherboards and computers are a little different, so make sure you have your manual handy.
  • The Windows setup process will start. In Windows 8.1, the first screen lets you select your language, location, and keyboard location. Click Next > Install Now. Wait for the setup process to start.

    • Wait for Windows to install

  • To get started, click I accept the license terms and then click Next on the license screen. The next screen has two options: Upgrade and Custom. Choose Custom — the Windows 8.1 installation system cannot upgrade from a newer version of Windows to an older one.
  • On this screen, you will have to select the installation drive or partition. If your computer has only one hard drive or solid state drive, this is the largest partition available. You have two options here: Click the drive and click Next to preserve the old Windows files in a folder on the new installation. This is useful as a secondary backup method, but it will not keep installed programs and there may be compatibility or permission issues when accessing old files. It is generally best to start from scratch by formatting the installation drive. Do this by clicking Format and then OK. Wait for the main drive to format and click Next.
  • On the next screen, the installation program will copy the Windows files from the installation media to the computer and start installing the operating system itself. This process can take some time, so if you have something else to do for 30 minutes to an hour, it’s okay to leave your computer alone as long as it’s plugged in. Keep an eye on the screen and return when the process is finished. Your computer may restart by itself.
  • After a few minutes, you should see Windows 8.1 start its first boot process. Here, you will select some personal settings and ringtones. Just follow the onscreen instructions, entering your username and password when prompted.

    • Going back through Windows settings

  • Go to the Settings main menu *in Windows 10, click *Recovery, then click Back to Windows 8.1 or Back to Windows 7 and follow the onscreen instructions.
  • Before any instructions appear up, however, you will see a question asking why you want to revert to a previous version of Windows. You can respond however you like. This will not affect your recovery process; Windows is just collecting data. A message will inform you that your files are not going anywhere in this process. While it is certain that your files will not disappear, it is still up for you to reinstall apps and restore custom settings correctly.
  • Reverting to an earlier Windows can sometimes reverse your password, so keep that in mind when the screen asks for a password to log in. You may need to use your old password if you changed it to a new one when you upgraded to Windows 10.

    • Final note

    I hope you like the guide How to uninstall Windows 10 and downgrade to Windows 8.1. In case if you have any query regards this article you may ask us. Also, please share your love by sharing this article with your friends.

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