Can't change Windows 10 Insider Program Channel

Question

Been trying to opt out of the insider program for about two months now. Originally tried to change to Release Preview Channel and then turned on the Roll Out option. Maybe a week or so ago, I released I was still in the Dev Channel, so I changed it back to Release as I know you can't roll out when inside the Dev Channel. After receiving a major update yesterday, I went to check that my system had indeed rolled out, only to find I was somehow still inside the Dev Channel. I then tried to change it once again back to Release, and realized no matter what channel I try to change to (release or beta), it doesn't let me change from Dev. I have attached a .gif below showing my problem.

I have already tried searching for this issue on the internet, and it seems that this has been an issue in the past. I have tried unlinking then relinking my Microsoft account, but to no avail. Not sure what options to pursue w/o doing a clean install, but really really hoping to avoid that as I have a lot of programs/files configured that I don't want to have to deal with, hence why I've just been trying to wait it out and roll out.

I appreciate any help, thanks!

Answer 1

Hi KirGro,

Unfortunately, the only way to move out of the Dev channel is to clean install, Microsoft changed the system a year or so ago.

Windows Insider shows you how to clean install.

Answer 2

Oh dang, really? That super duper sucks, and was never communicated when I got on the Dev Channel. Microsoft definitely needs to add a warning when trying to switch 😑

I appreciate the help, guess I'm off to do a clean install  🙃

Answer 3

Yes it was a pain but at the time of the change MS did tell us through Blogs, here on this forum and social media outlets 

The warning should be when you upgrade to the Dev channel telling you the only way out is clean install.  

Here's some information about different channels 

Deeper look at flighting - Windows Insider Program | Microsoft Docs

Answer 4

From 2016 & other warnings from October 2014

"You May Have to Reinstall Windows to Get Back to Stable Build"

Answer 5

Also:

Just Don’t Upgrade Your Main PC