How to Uninstall Updates on Windows 10 and Windows 11

Windows updates often bring new features and security fixes, but sometimes they can cause problems, slow down your system, or even lead to crashes. In such cases, you might need to uninstall the problematic update. In this article, we’ll cover different methods for uninstalling updates on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Why Should You Uninstall Windows Updates?

Updates usually improve security and system performance. However, in some instances, they may:

  • Cause software or app malfunctions;
  • Trigger the infamous Blue Screen of Death (BSOD);
  • Slow down the system;
  • Create compatibility issues with drivers or installed software.

If you notice issues after an update, it might be worth uninstalling it to restore system stability.

Method 1: Uninstall Updates via Control Panel

This method works for both Windows 10 and Windows 11 and is one of the easiest options.

  1. Open the Control Panel by searching for it in the Windows search bar.
  2. Navigate to Programs and Features and click on View installed updates.
  3. Find the update you want to uninstall, right-click on it, and select Uninstall.
  4. Wait for the process to complete and restart your computer.

Method 2: Uninstall Updates via Settings

This method offers a user-friendly interface to manage updates.

  1. Open Settings (use the shortcut Win + I).
  2. Go to Update & Security → View update history.
  3. Click on Uninstall updates.
  4. Select the update and click Uninstall.

Method 3: Uninstall Updates Using Command Prompt

If other methods fail, you can use the Command Prompt for more control.

  1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator (right-click on Start and select Command Prompt (Admin)).
  2. Enter the following command to list installed updates: 
    wmic qfe list brief /format:table
  3. Identify the update by its ID (e.g., KB5005565).
  4. Type the following command to uninstall the update: 
    wusa /uninstall /kb:5005565
  5. Confirm the uninstallation and wait for the process to finish.

Method 4: Use Safe Mode to Remove Updates

If your system fails to boot after an update, try removing it in Safe Mode.

  1. Restart your PC and press F8 (or Shift + F8) to enter Safe Mode.
  2. Log in and follow the steps from Method 1 or Method 2 to uninstall the update.

Method 5: Roll Back to a Previous Version of Windows

This option is helpful if issues arise after a major Windows update (e.g., upgrading to a new version of Windows 11).

  1. Open Settings → Update & Security → Recovery.
  2. Select Go back to the previous version of Windows and follow the on-screen instructions.

What to Do If Updates Won’t Uninstall?

If you're unable to remove an update, try these steps:

  • Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter;
  • Clear the update cache using the command net stop wuauserv and deleting the contents of the C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution folder;
  • Use System Restore to revert to an earlier state.

How to Prevent Automatic Updates from Reinstalling?

To avoid reinstalling the same problematic update, you can temporarily pause automatic updates:

  1. Open Settings → Update & Security → Advanced options.
  2. Select Pause updates for a specific period.
  3. For advanced users, consider using Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc) or Registry Editor (regedit) for more control.