How to roll back a Windows update

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Rolling back a Windows update can help resolve issues caused by problematic updates. This process can be done through the Settings app or using advanced recovery options.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before rolling back a Windows update, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •Windows 10 or Windows 11 installed on your device.
  • •Administrator access to perform the rollback.
  • •Backup important data to prevent loss during the rollback process.
  • •Ensure your device is connected to the internet for any potential updates post-rollback.

Method 1: Rolling Back via Settings

This method is the most straightforward and is suitable for users who have recently installed an update that is causing issues.
  • •Step 1: Click on the Start button (Windows icon) on the taskbar.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Settings' (gear icon).
  • •Step 3: Navigate to 'Update & Security'.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Windows Update' on the left pane.
  • •Step 5: Click on 'View update history'.
  • •Step 6: Click on 'Uninstall updates' at the top of the page.
  • •Step 7: In the 'Installed Updates' window, select the update you wish to remove and click 'Uninstall'.
  • •Step 8: Confirm the uninstallation when prompted.
  • •Step 9: Restart your computer to complete the rollback.
  • •Step 10: Verify that the issue is resolved.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 users will find the interface slightly different but the steps remain similar.
  • •Step 1: Click on the Start button (Windows icon) on the taskbar.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Settings' (gear icon).
  • •Step 3: Click on 'Windows Update' in the left sidebar.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Update history'.
  • •Step 5: Click on 'Uninstall updates' at the top.
  • •Step 6: In the 'Installed Updates' window, select the update and click 'Uninstall'.
  • •Step 7: Restart your computer.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users can follow the same steps as outlined above, but the layout may vary slightly.
  • •Step 1: Click on the Start button.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Settings'.
  • •Step 3: Go to 'Update & Security'.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'View update history'.
  • •Step 5: Click 'Uninstall updates'.
  • •Step 6: Select the update and click 'Uninstall'.
  • •Step 7: Restart your computer.

Method 2: Using Advanced Startup Options

This method is useful if you cannot access Windows normally due to issues caused by an update.
  • •Step 1: Restart your computer and press F8 or Shift + F8 repeatedly before the Windows logo appears.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Troubleshoot' from the options.
  • •Step 3: Click on 'Advanced options'.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Uninstall Updates'.
  • •Step 5: Choose either 'Uninstall latest quality update' or 'Uninstall latest feature update'.
  • •Step 6: Confirm the uninstallation.
  • •Step 7: Restart your computer.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while rolling back an update, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'The update could not be uninstalled' - Solution: Ensure you have administrator privileges and try again.
  • •Issue: 'Uninstall option is greyed out' - Fix: Check if the update was installed more than 10 days ago; older updates cannot be uninstalled via this method.
  • •Problem: 'System fails to boot after rollback' - Workaround: Use System Restore to revert to a previous state.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some additional tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Windows + R - Opens the Run dialog for quick access to commands.
  • •Command line: 'wusa /uninstall /kb:XXXXXXX' - Use this command in Command Prompt to uninstall a specific update by its KB number.
  • •Hidden feature: System Restore - Access via Control Panel > System and Security > System > System Protection to create restore points before updates.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

The best approach to rolling back a Windows update is to always ensure you have a recent backup and to create a restore point before any major updates.