How to Uninstall Windows 10 Updates
Uninstalling Windows 10 updates can be a lifesaver if an update causes issues on your computer. The process involves accessing the settings, navigating to the update history, and removing the problematic update. This guide will walk you through the steps to uninstall Windows 10 updates, ensuring you can get your computer back to running smoothly.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Uninstall Windows 10 Updates
We’re going to walk through the process of uninstalling updates on Windows 10. This will involve accessing the update history, identifying the update, and then removing it.
Step 1: Open Settings
Access the settings by clicking the Start menu and selecting the gear icon.
The Settings app is where you control most of the configurations on your Windows 10 computer. It’s like the command center for all your system preferences. You’ll need to get to the Settings app to start the uninstallation process.
Step 2: Go to Update & Security
Navigate to the Update & Security section by clicking on it in the Settings menu.
In this section, you’ll find all things related to Windows updates, including the option to view your update history and uninstall updates. It’s the hub for managing your system’s updates.
Step 3: Click on View Update History
Select the "View Update History" link to see a list of installed updates.
This will show you a comprehensive list of all the updates that have been installed on your computer. It’s like a timeline of changes that have recently been made to your system.
Step 4: Click on Uninstall Updates
Choose the "Uninstall updates" option at the top of the update history page.
Here, you’ll be redirected to a control panel where you can select specific updates to remove. This is where the real action happens.
Step 5: Select the Update to Uninstall
Identify and select the update you wish to uninstall, and then click Uninstall.
Make sure you select the correct update by checking the dates and KB numbers. Once you click Uninstall, the system will begin removing that update from your computer.
After completing these steps, Windows will remove the selected update and prompt you to restart your computer to finalize the changes.
Tips for Uninstalling Windows 10 Updates
- Always check the update history to confirm which update is causing issues.
- Make sure your data is backed up before uninstalling an update.
- Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter tool if you encounter problems.
- Consider pausing updates temporarily if you’re running into repeated issues.
- Keep track of the KB numbers of updates, which can help you identify them easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reinstall an update after uninstalling it?
Yes, you can reinstall an update by checking for updates in the Update & Security section.
Will uninstalling an update affect my personal files?
No, uninstalling an update will not affect your personal files. It only removes the system changes made by the update.
How do I know which update to uninstall?
Check the update history and look for recent updates that coincide with the start of your issues.
Is it safe to uninstall Windows updates?
Generally, it’s safe, but ensure that the issue you’re facing is update-related and that you follow the steps correctly.
What if I can’t access the Settings app?
You can try accessing the Control Panel directly and navigate to Programs > Programs and Features > View installed updates.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security.
- Click on View Update History.
- Click on Uninstall Updates.
- Select the update to uninstall.
Conclusion
Uninstalling Windows 10 updates is a straightforward process that can help you resolve issues caused by recent updates. By following the steps in this guide, you can quickly revert to a previous state and get your system back to normal. Remember, always back up your data before making significant changes like this to avoid any potential data loss.
If you’re regularly facing issues with updates, it might be a good idea to pause updates temporarily or even look into the specifics of why these updates are causing problems in the first place. Check out other articles and resources on managing Windows updates for more in-depth information and advice.
By understanding how to uninstall Windows 10 updates, you equip yourself with the knowledge to troubleshoot your system effectively, ensuring a smoother and more reliable computing experience.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.