Windows 10 Upgrade Backup and Rollback Options Guide

In-Place Upgrades in Windows 10: Backup and Rollback Options

When upgrading to a new version of Windows 10, it's important to have backup and rollback options in place for any issues or changes of heart. Here's a guide on how to utilize these features effectively.

Backup Options

Before upgrading, make sure you have enough free space on the Windows C: drive. The amount of space needed is usually twice the size of the C:\Windows.old folder. Keep all files and folders in the Windows.old, $windows.~bt, and $Windows.~WS directories after the upgrade. This includes user accounts added after the upgrade, personal files, and system settings. Do not delete these folders or check the "Previous Windows Installation(s)" box when using Disk Cleanup.

Rollback Procedure

Option 1: Advanced Startup Options

1. Boot to advanced startup options.
2. Click on "Troubleshoot."
3. Click on "Advanced options."
4. Click on "Uninstall Updates."
5. Click on "Uninstall latest feature update."
6. Select an administrator account and enter the password for that account.
7. Click on "Uninstall feature update" to begin the rollback process.

Option 2: Settings

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on "Update & Security."
3. Click on "Recovery" on the left side and click on "Get Started" under "Go back to the previous version of Windows 10" on the right side.
4. Check why you are going back, select a reason, and click "Next."
5. Click "No, thanks."
6. Click "Next" again.
7. Click "Go back to earlier build" or "Go back to Windows #" to begin the rollback process.

Option 3: Command Prompt

1. Open an elevated command prompt.
2. Run the command DISM /Online /Initiate-OSUninstall /Quiet to start the rollback process.

When the rollback process is complete, the computer will boot into your previous version of Windows. Some changes may be lost, such as apps installed after the most recent upgrade, personal settings made after the upgrade, and local account passwords. However, documents, photos, and other personal files will remain intact.

Additional Considerations

• If you go back to Windows 8.1, some apps that came with Windows, like Mail and People, might not work anymore. To fix them, reinstall them from the Store.
• If you're a Windows 10 Insider with a Windows 10 preview build installed, going back to an earlier build won't remove you from the Insider Program. When the next preview build is ready, it'll be installed on your PC. If your PC has been flighting longer than 31 days, you'll need to create recovery media and clean install the old OS directly to the machine.
• It's essential to back up your data and content first before proceeding with the rollback process.

In conclusion, in-place upgrades in Windows 10 provide rollback options that allow you to revert to a previous version of Windows within a certain timeframe. These backup and rollback options ensure that you have the flexibility to go back if needed, while keeping your personal files and settings intact.