Microsoft Windows updates install new features, fix bugs, and integrate safety patches on the machines. Windows updates have caused issues for users in the past. For instance, it could break some functionality. However, it is true for any software. Updates might pass QA inspections, but not every scenario might be tested.
So, if a Windows update makes it difficult to use your device, consider reverting your OS to the older version.
The quality and feature updates
The quality updates ensure bug fixes, creates security files, and protect malicious tweaks. It comes monthly as “Cumulative Updates,” which you can always find on the Windows update page in the settings menu.
The feature-oriented ones are annual updates from Microsoft Inc., which are larger packs of new features and significant changes in the system. Keep in mind that Windows 10 & 11 users can uninstall Quality updates, but for Feature updates, it needs to be done through recovery settings.
Ways to uninstall the updates
One recent Windows update to cause issues was released on May 10, 2022. Apparently, it disturbed the authentication for some server administrators. An update in August 2022 also seemed to have caused audio issues for users who updated their operating systems.
To uninstall an update, it is recommended to boot in a safe mode always. For Windows 10 users, firstly go to the start menu, then Settings ->Update & Security -> View update history, and there you will find all the recent updates that have been installed recently.
You will find all the quality and feature updates listed separately, and then click on uninstall updates at the top left corner of the screen.
In the case of Windows 11 users, open Settings, go to Windows update and View history to check all the recent installs. Scroll down to find the Uninstall updates; once you click, you will find a series of installed update patches with detailed descriptions of dates. It will help you to choose which one to uninstall.
One important point to remember, when you get rid of an update, the same update will attempt to get reinstalled again when you check for updates next time. You can pause the update until your problem is fixed to stop this process.
What to do when the uninstall button is deactivated?
In some cases, the Uninstall button remains deactivated, which signals that a single/series of updates cannot be removed. In such cases, Microsoft recommends System Restore or a system backup to bring your computer to the previous stage.
Mainly in the case of Windows feature updates, you cannot uninstall an update if it is ten days from the date of upgradation. If, within those ten days, you discover some glitches in your system, it is recommended to uninstall the update and roll it back.
For doing so, the same process must follow as discussed above in the case of Windows 10. However, if the uninstall button does not work, the ten-day cooling period is over.
Upgrading from Windows 10 to 11
Suppose you recently upgraded yourself to Windows 11 from Windows 10 and found issues in your system after the upgradation. In that case, the ten days cooling-off period can be used to roll back to the previous version with just a few clicks.
Open Settings -> System -> Recovery and click on the Go Back button. You can also share your issue and the reason for rolling back while going through some wizards, and then until your system restarts, you are back to your Windows 10 version again.
If there is a boot issue in your system (even in Safe Mode) and you cannot uninstall updates, then hold the Windows power button while restarting and follow the steps on the Recovery options. Click on Troubleshoot -> Advanced options -> Uninstall Updates. It will help to uninstall any Quality or Feature updates and boot back your system.
It is recommended to follow the above-tested methods to uninstall those updates that are nipping your system performance and help you to fix and restore. As a bonus, check out some quick tips on computer protection.
More pro tips to enhance computer security
To offer more security to your Windows device when going online, do not forget to enable a VPN. A VPN download brings you a program that encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address. Thus, you get to enjoy browsing protected from data interception, location tracking, and ISP speed throttling.
Here are some more positive changes you can make to your computer:
- Enable a firewall to create a barrier between malicious networks and the internet
- Install a purchased antivirus to get protection from vulnerable viruses, malware, and Trojan attacks
- Keep your device password protected and back up your data
- Encrypt your data to protect your lifelong work files or personal files
