If you’ve been forced into the new Microsoft Teams client and miss the classic version, you’re not alone. Many users find the updated interface confusing or slower, so learning how to go back to old teams is a common need. This guide walks you through every step to restore the classic Teams experience on Windows and Mac.
Microsoft automatically switched many users to the new Teams in 2023, but you can still revert. The process is straightforward, though it requires a few deliberate actions. Below, we cover manual methods, group policy tweaks, and troubleshooting tips.
Why Users Want To Go Back To Old Teams
The new Microsoft Teams client, while modern, has some drawbacks. Users report missing features, slower performance, and a cluttered layout. The classic version feels more stable and familiar, especially for daily tasks like file sharing or meeting scheduling.
Common complaints about new Teams include:
- Longer load times on older hardware
- Removed or relocated menu options
- Incompatibility with some third-party add-ins
- Confusing notification settings
If these issues sound familiar, reverting to the classic client can restore your productivity. The steps below are tested on Windows 10, Windows 11, and macOS.
How To Go Back To Old Teams
Here is the exact process to switch from the new Teams back to the classic version. Follow these steps carefully, as Microsoft may hide the toggle option after updates.
Step 1: Check Your Current Teams Version
First, confirm you’re using the new Teams. Open the app and look for a small toggle switch near your profile picture. If you see “New Teams” in the top-left corner, you’re on the updated version.
Alternatively, click your profile picture and select “About.” The version number should indicate if it’s the new client. Classic Teams versions are typically 1.x.x, while new Teams starts with 2.x.x.
Step 2: Use The In-App Toggle (If Available)
Microsoft includes a simple toggle to switch back, but it’s often hidden. Here’s how to find it:
- Click the three-dot menu (ellipsis) next to your profile picture
- Select “Settings” from the dropdown
- Look for “General” tab
- Find the option “Use new Teams” and toggle it OFF
- Restart Teams when prompted
If the toggle is missing, don’t worry. Proceed to the next step.
Step 3: Uninstall New Teams And Install Classic
When the toggle isn’t available, you must manually remove the new client and install the classic one. This is the most reliable method for how to go back to old teams.
On Windows:
- Close Teams completely (right-click system tray icon and select “Quit”)
- Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps
- Find “Microsoft Teams (new)” and click Uninstall
- Restart your computer
- Download the classic Teams installer from Microsoft’s official site (search “Microsoft Teams classic download”)
- Run the installer and follow the prompts
On Mac:
- Quit Teams from the menu bar
- Open Finder > Applications
- Drag “Microsoft Teams (new)” to Trash
- Empty Trash
- Download the classic Teams .pkg file from Microsoft
- Install and launch the classic version
Step 4: Prevent Automatic Updates
After reverting, you must block the new Teams from reinstalling. Microsoft may push updates that switch you back. Use these methods:
- Disable automatic updates in Teams settings (Settings > General > “Auto-start application” and “Automatically download updates”)
- Use Group Policy Editor (Windows Pro/Enterprise) to block new Teams deployment
- Set your network to block the update server URLs (advanced users only)
For most users, disabling updates in the app is sufficient. Check occasionally to ensure the classic version remains active.
Using Group Policy To Force Classic Teams
IT administrators can enforce the classic version across an organization. This is useful for businesses that rely on legacy features. Here’s a simplified guide:
Windows Group Policy Settings
- Open Group Policy Management Console (gpmc.msc)
- Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Microsoft Teams
- Enable “Use new Teams client” and set it to “Disabled”
- Apply the policy and run gpupdate /force on client machines
This forces all users to the classic client, preventing accidental upgrades. Test on a few machines first to avoid disruptions.
Mac Configuration Profiles
For macOS, use a configuration profile to disable new Teams. Create a .mobileconfig file with the key “DisableNewTeams” set to true. Deploy via MDM like Jamf or Intune.
Common Issues When Reverting
Even with correct steps, you might encounter problems. Here are fixes for frequent issues:
Teams Keeps Reinstalling New Version
This happens if automatic updates are enabled. Go to Teams settings and turn off “Automatically download updates.” Also, check your startup programs—remove any Teams updater from the list.
Classic Teams Won’t Launch
Try clearing the cache. On Windows, delete the %appdata%\Microsoft\Teams folder. On Mac, remove ~/Library/Application Support/Microsoft/Teams. Restart the app.
Missing Features In Classic Teams
Some new features (like enhanced video filters) are only in new Teams. If you need them, you may have to accept the trade-off. Classic Teams still supports core functions: chat, meetings, files, and channels.
Alternative Methods To Switch
If the above steps fail, try these workarounds:
Use The Web Version
Access Teams through a browser (teams.microsoft.com). The web version often defaults to classic layout. Bookmark it for quick access.
Reinstall From Offline Installer
Download the classic Teams .msi (Windows) or .pkg (Mac) from Microsoft’s download center. Run it without internet to prevent auto-updates. This method is more reliable than the online installer.
Contact IT Support
If you’re in a managed organization, your IT team may have policies blocking the switch. Request an exception or ask them to deploy the classic version via group policy.
How To Keep Classic Teams Long-Term
Microsoft plans to phase out classic Teams by mid-2024, but you can extend its life. Here’s how:
- Disable all automatic updates in Teams and Windows
- Use third-party tools to block update servers (like hosts file edits)
- Set Teams to launch in compatibility mode (Windows only)
- Backup your classic installer file for reinstallation
Remember that security updates will stop for classic Teams eventually. Consider testing the new version periodically to see if improvements meet your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use both new and classic Teams simultaneously?
No, Microsoft only allows one version per user account. You must uninstall one to use the other.
Will my chats and files transfer when I go back to old Teams?
Yes, all your data is stored in the cloud. Chats, files, and settings remain intact when switching versions.
How long will classic Teams be supported?
Microsoft extended support for classic Teams until July 2024. After that, it may stop working or lose features.
Is it safe to use classic Teams after support ends?
Security risks increase without updates. If you handle sensitive data, consider migrating to the new version eventually.
What if the toggle to switch back is grayed out?
This means your IT admin has locked the setting. Contact your IT department to request the classic version.
Final Thoughts On Reverting
Knowing how to go back to old teams can save you from frustration with an unfamiliar interface. The process is simple if you follow the steps above, but be prepared for Microsoft’s push toward the new version. Keep your classic installer handy and disable updates to maintain control.
If you encounter issues, revisit the troubleshooting section. Most problems stem from automatic updates or cache corruption. With patience, you can enjoy the classic Teams experience a while longer.
Remember that change is inevitable. While classic Teams feels comfortable, the new version will improve over time. Test it occasionally to see if it meets your needs. For now, enjoy the familiar layout and reliable performance of the classic client.