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How to Install an Older Version of OneNote on Windows 10
Question details
The user wants to downgrade to an older official version of OneNote on Windows 10 due to performance issues while retaining access to notebooks stored in OneDrive.
- Product
- Microsoft OneNote
- Device & OS
- Windows 10
- Scenario
- Attempting to revert to a previous build of OneNote to bypass recent performance or stability issues on a Windows 10 machine.
- Observed behavior
- Seeking instructions to successfully install a legacy version of OneNote, noting that Microsoft 365 applications typically enforce sharing the same build version.
Ensure your OneDrive notebooks are fully synced before proceeding, and note that changing your Microsoft 365 build will also affect the versions of other Office applications like Word and Excel.
Downgrade OneNote using the Office Deployment Tool
Use the Office Deployment Tool (ODT) and the Office Customization Tool to deploy an earlier build of Microsoft 365.
Because all Microsoft 365 applications on a single computer share the same version build, downgrading OneNote requires downgrading your entire Microsoft 365 suite. This process relies on Microsoft's deployment tools for enterprise and advanced users.
Navigate to the Office Customization Tool at config.office.com in your browser to select your desired older build and generate the required XML configuration file.
Download the Office Deployment Tool (ODT) from the official Microsoft website and extract it to a local folder on your computer.
Open Command Prompt as an administrator, navigate to the extracted ODT folder, and run the setup using the command '/configure' followed by your XML file name to begin installing the older version.
Access Notebooks via OneNote Online
If you cannot change your desktop application version, use the web-based version to bypass local application performance issues.
Understanding Limitations with OneNote for Windows 10
Learn why the specific Microsoft Store version of OneNote cannot be rolled back.
Looking for a Lightweight Office Alternative? Try WPS Office
If Microsoft 365 update restrictions and application performance issues are slowing you down, consider switching to WPS Office. It is a free, lightweight alternative that offers robust document creation tools without forcing restrictive, synchronized application updates.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the download button to get the free installer for Windows.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded executable file and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up the software on your PC.
- 3. Start Creating: Launch WPS Office to instantly open, create, or edit your documents, spreadsheets, and presentations with full format compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I downgrade only OneNote without affecting Word or Excel?
No, if you are using the Microsoft 365 desktop suite, all included Office applications must share the same build version. Downgrading OneNote using the Office Deployment Tool will simultaneously downgrade Word, Excel, and other Office apps.
Why can't I downgrade the OneNote for Windows 10 app?
The 'OneNote for Windows 10' app is tied to the Microsoft Store, which automatically manages updates and does not provide an official mechanism to install older versions or roll back updates for UWP applications.
Where can I find the Office Deployment Tool?
The Office Deployment Tool (ODT) can be downloaded directly from the official Microsoft Download Center. You will use it in combination with the web-based Office Customization Tool to configure your desired build.
Will I lose my local notebooks if I uninstall and reinstall an older version?
Notebooks synced to OneDrive are safe and will reload once you sign back in. However, any local unsynced changes might be lost. Always ensure your notebooks are completely synced to the cloud before modifying your Office installation.
