Downgrading a new computer to Windows 10 is no longer a good default choice. Windows 10 reached the end of standard free support on October 14, 2025, and many PCs designed for Windows 11 do not have complete Windows 10 driver support. Check the computer manufacturer’s support information before erasing Windows 11.
Check compatibility before installing Windows 10
- Look up the exact computer model on the manufacturer’s official support site.
- Confirm that Windows 10 drivers exist for critical hardware such as the chipset, storage controller, graphics, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, audio, and touchpad.
- Check whether your applications actually require Windows 10 or whether a compatibility setting, virtual machine, or updated application would solve the problem.
- Back up all personal files and create any manufacturer recovery media you may need to restore the factory Windows 11 installation.
If the computer was recently upgraded
If Windows 11 was installed as an upgrade over Windows 10, Settings may temporarily offer a Go back recovery option. That option is time-limited and is different from installing Windows 10 on a PC that shipped with Windows 11.
Clean installation considerations
A clean Windows 10 installation erases applications and can erase personal data depending on how the drive is partitioned. You also need legitimate Windows installation media and appropriate licensing. Do not proceed until you know how you will restore network and storage drivers if setup cannot detect the hardware.
On a new PC, unsupported Windows 10 can reduce security and create driver, power-management, or firmware problems. If an older application is the reason for downgrading, running it in a supported compatibility environment is generally preferable to replacing the entire operating system with one that has reached end of support.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.