How to Downgrade Windows 10 to Windows 8.1: Step-by-Step Guide

Downgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 8.1 can be necessary if you prefer the older interface or if certain software works better on Windows 8.1. While Windows 10 offers many new features, some users find Windows 8.1 more suitable for their needs.

This guide will walk you through the process step by step, making it as simple as possible. No technical jargon, just clear instructions you can follow easily.

Remember, downgrading is not the same as simply uninstalling an update. It requires backing up your data and reinstalling the older operating system.

Let’s get started with what you need to know before you begin.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Backup Your Data: Downgrading will erase everything on your computer. Save all important files, photos, and documents to an external drive or cloud storage.
Check Your License: Make sure you have a valid Windows 8.1 product key. Windows 10 licenses do not always work for Windows 8.1.
Create Installation Media: You will need a USB drive (at least 8GB) to create a Windows 8.1 installation USB.
Know Your Device Drivers: Some hardware might need specific drivers for Windows 8.1. Download these from your manufacturer’s website before starting.

Step 1: Back Up Your Important Files

Before doing anything else, make sure all your personal data is safe. Downgrading will delete everything on your hard drive, including programs and files.

Use an external hard drive, USB flash drive, or cloud storage services like OneDrive or Google Drive. Double-check that all your important documents, photos, and other files are copied.

Step 2: Download Windows 8.1 Installation Media

To install Windows 8.1, you need the installation files on a USB drive or DVD.

Visit the official Microsoft website to download the Windows 8.1 Media Creation Tool.
Run the tool and select “Create installation media for another PC.”
Choose the language, edition (Windows 8.1), and architecture (32-bit or 64-bit) that matches your license.
Insert a USB drive with at least 8GB of free space.
Follow the prompts to create the bootable Windows 8.1 installation USB.

This USB will be used to install the operating system after you erase Windows 10.

Step 3: Prepare Your PC for Downgrade

You need to access your computer’s BIOS or UEFI settings to change the boot order. This allows your PC to start from the USB drive instead of the current Windows 10 system.

Restart your PC.
During startup, press the BIOS key (usually F2, Delete, Esc, or F12). The exact key depends on your computer’s brand and model.
Navigate to the “Boot” tab in BIOS settings using the arrow keys.
Set your USB drive as the first boot device.
Save changes and exit the BIOS (often F10 to save and exit).

Your computer will now boot from the USB drive when restarted.

Step 4: Install Windows 8.1

Once your PC boots from the USB, the Windows 8.1 installation screen will appear.

Select your language, time, and keyboard preferences, then click “Next.”
Click “Install now.”
Enter your Windows 8.1 product key when prompted.
Accept the license terms.
Choose “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).” This option lets you perform a clean install.
Select the partition where Windows 10 is installed (usually the largest partition) and click “Delete” to remove it. Warning: This deletes all data on that partition.
Click the unallocated space and select “Next” to start the installation.

The installation will take some time and your PC will restart several times.

Step 5: Complete the Setup

After installation, you will be guided through the Windows 8.1 setup process.

Create or sign in with a Microsoft account.
Set up your preferences like time zone, privacy settings, and network.
Install any device drivers that Windows didn’t automatically detect.

Once done, your PC will be running Windows 8.1 successfully.

Alternative Method: Using a Recovery Partition (If Available)

Some manufacturers include a recovery partition with Windows 8.1. If your PC came pre-installed with Windows 8.1, you may be able to restore it without creating USB media.

Check your PC manufacturer’s website or user manual for recovery instructions.
Usually, pressing a specific key during boot (like F9 or Alt + F10) opens the recovery environment.
Follow the prompts to restore to factory settings, which will reinstall Windows 8.1.

This method is faster but only works if the recovery partition is still intact.

FAQs

Can I downgrade without losing my files?

No, downgrading requires a clean install of Windows 8.1, which deletes all files on your system drive. Always back up your data before starting.

Will my Windows 10 product key work for Windows 8.1?

Usually not. Windows 10 keys are different from Windows 8.1 keys. You need a valid Windows 8.1 product key to activate your downgraded system.

What if the USB installation media doesn’t boot?

Check your BIOS boot order again and ensure the USB is properly created. Try a different USB port or recreate the installation media.

Do I need to reinstall all my programs after downgrading?

Yes, a clean install removes all installed applications. You will need to reinstall any software you want to use.

Can I upgrade back to Windows 10 after downgrading?

Yes, but you will need a Windows 10 installation media and a valid license to upgrade again.

When Nothing Works

If you encounter persistent problems downgrading, consider the following:

Visit the Microsoft Support website for official help and tools.
Contact your PC manufacturer for assistance if your device has a recovery partition or specialized tools.
Consult a professional technician if you’re unsure about the process or face hardware compatibility issues.

Conclusion

Downgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 8.1 involves backing up your data, preparing installation media, and performing a clean install. While it may seem intimidating at first, following these basic steps carefully will help you complete the process smoothly.

Always remember to back up your important files and have a valid Windows 8.1 license before starting. With patience and careful attention to each step, you can enjoy the Windows 8.1 experience once again.