Cannot go back to Windows 8.1

WolfAchilles · 20 Dec 2015

When I installed windows 10, something went wrong and I could no longer could connect to the internet because some protocols were missing. Also, within five minutes of starting using my computer, the start menu stopped working. I have tried all the fixes I could find for the start menu including sfc /scannow and multiple powershell fixes. None of them worked. When I use the windows 8.1 install disk it, I get a message saying that something happened, setup has failed to determine supported install choices. Windows 10 is difficult to navigate and always seems to be missing some software. Is there anything I can do or should I simply bring my computer to a computer repair shop and ask a specialist to fix it?

CmmTch · 20 Dec 2015

Try this, settings>update & security>recovery and if it's been less than 30 days you should have a choice to go back to the previous OS.

I can't be sure about it, since it's been long past 30 days for me, mine says "go back to previous build"

Check it and see what's there for you. There are many here on this forum that would be considered "computer specialist's" have patience, others will see this and offer advice.

Try this tutorial, option 2 https://www.tenforums.com/tutorials/4...s-windows.html tenforums has many, many useful tutorials.

dalchina · 22 Dec 2015

Hi, sorry to hear of your problems.

If you are past the 30 days, I'd suggest maybe two options:
1. DISM command
DISM - Repair Windows 10 Image - Windows 10 Forums
2. In place repair install - where you boot normally and then run setup using the same installation medium.
Repair Install Windows 10 with an In-place Upgrade - Windows 10 Forums

Finally you could then try a Win 10 clean install using build 10586 media
- this will either register automatically- assuming your Win 10 installation completed satisfactorily
- or allow you to use your Win 8 retail key

Do you use disk imaging? It sounds as if you don't; lesson learnt- you need to. Once you have an image, you can restore your PC to how it was when you created it. Windows- esp. Win 10 for too many- is fragile. Aomei Backupper, Macrium Reflect Free + boot disk + external storage medium.