How to Roll Back Device Drivers in Windows 11
Rolling back a device driver in Windows 11 returns your hardware to an older, trusted version when a new driver causes problems.
This means you can fix issues like a printer not working or a graphics card acting up after a recent driver update. Windows keeps copies of older drivers so you can easily switch back.
For example, if your Wi-Fi suddenly stopped working after a driver update on May 1, 2024, rolling back the driver is a good first step to try.
You can perform this fix when a new driver causes your computer or hardware to become unstable. It helps get your hardware working properly again without affecting your files.
To roll back a device driver in Windows 11, open Device Manager, right-click the device, select Properties, go to the Driver tab, and click “Roll Back Driver.” Select a reason and confirm to revert to the previous driver version.
How to revert to previous device drivers
Reverting to previous device drivers in Windows 11 is an option if a recent update causes problems with your computer’s hardware. This means going back to an older driver version that you know worked correctly. The Device Manager offers a direct way to do this, and it can be opened quickly from the Start button menu.
The fastest way to access the tools you need is through the ⊞ Win+X menu. First, right-click the Start button and select Device Manager from the list.
Once the Device Manager is open, find the device causing the driver conflict. Click the small arrow next to the device category to see the hardware list. Right-click the specific device and select Properties.
In the new window that pops up, click the Driver tab at the top. You will see a button labeled Roll Back Driver. If the button is greyed out, it means no older driver version is available to switch to.
Click the button to begin. A window will appear asking why you want to roll back. Select the reason that fits your situation, such as “The previous version of the driver performed better,” and click Yes to continue.
Troubleshooting Driver Issues
If rolling back drivers doesn’t fix your hardware problems, you might need to check for specific Windows DCH driver requirements or verify your hardware’s ID.
Summary
Rolling back device drivers is a helpful way to fix stability issues that might arise after a Windows update. The Device Manager is your main tool for managing these drivers. If the ‘Roll Back’ option is greyed out, it means no older driver version is available to switch to.- Rolling back is a simple way to fix stability issues caused by recent updates.
- Use the Device Manager (⊞ Win+X) to manage your hardware drivers.
- If the ‘Roll Back’ button is greyed out, no previous driver version is available.
- Rolling back drivers does not delete your personal files.
- Always restart your computer after the process to ensure everything works correctly.
Why is the Roll Back Driver button greyed out?
The ‘Roll Back Driver’ button is greyed out in Windows 11 when your system doesn’t have a previous driver version saved.
Will rolling back a driver delete my personal files?
No, rolling back a device driver will not delete your personal files, photos, or documents. It only affects the specific software instructions used by Windows to communicate with your hardware. It is a safe troubleshooting step that only changes system-level driver files, not your user data.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
Cannot select “Roll Back Driver”, it is grayed out.
Same situation. Any solution to this problem?
Hello, Thank You for taking the time to help me. I did what you said.It seems my rollback driver is not even highlighted for me to click on
I want roll back driver
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