Upgraded to the new Windows and don’t think it’s all that? Feel like going back to your old comfort zone? Well, we’ve got you covered. This article will give you directions on how to go back to Windows 8 from Windows 10. Don’t worry; you can always go back to Windows 10 if you want to yo-yo back in the future. Let’s get started!
If you simply upgraded to Windows 10 without installing, it should be relatively quick and painless. There is a straightforward option that allows you to revert back to your previous Windows version. Go to the Start Menu, select Settings. Click on “Update and Security”, Click Recovery and voila! “Go back to Windows 8.1” should be displayed on your screen. Select “Get started” to take you back to Windows 8.
If your upgrade was done over a month ago or if you already ran the Disk cleanup tool or deleted C:\Windows manually, this option will no longer be available as after a month Windows 10 deletes the previous Windows installation files. This is because installation files take up a lot of space and this is Windows way (though unsolicited) of giving your PC a breather. Note that, only the Windows 10 Version 1511 gives you a month to go back to your previously installed Windows Version.
If you are running Windows 10 Version 1607, you have just 10 days to go back to your previous Windows version. To know what Version you are using click Start button, select Settings, Click System and About.
If you do not find the option of returning as previously described, you will need to do a fresh installation of Windows 8.
Back From Windows 10 to Windows 8
So, if your computer came with Windows 8, simply search for your software key. Then boot, reinstall and overwrite Windows 10. Ensure your important Windows 10 files are saved before starting this process. To find your product key, closely examine your PC for the authenticity sticker that comes with a key. Some Windows 8 PC may not require this as key may be embedded in PC firmware and would be automatically detected without the need of input.
If you are using a new PC that came already installed with Windows 10, it might not exactly be the walk in the park the above scenarios have been. You must purchase a license and do a fresh installation, enter key and complete process when prompted.
You may also try to reset computer to factory settings if your computer came with Windows 8. To do this, save the files and apps you would like to keep. Go to Settings, click “Update and Security”, select “Recovery”, select “Reset this PC”, click “Get started” and finally, click “Restore Factory Settings”.
That’s all it takes. Remember, you can always go back to Windows 10 if you change your mind and decide to go for an upgrade again.