Can I downgrade to an earlier version of Android after installing an OTA update? I installed the KitKat upgrade on my Nexus 7, but I am unhappy with it. Is it possible to roll back to an earlier version of Android (Jelly Bean)?
Yes, it is possible.

One of the advantages of rooting is the ability to control the operating system that resides on your phone.

With that control, you can change the version of Android. There are two ways to go about doing this:


Flash the stock image https://developers.google.com/android/nexus/images
Install a custom ROM. If you know what an operating system is on a computer, a ROM is basically an OS for your phone. Just check XDA-developers for some great custom ROMs that offer any Android experience, with additional features!


I know for a fact Cyanogenmod still haven't released a KitKat based version and offer a close to stock (unmodified) experience with features that are actually useful. I would recommend to try them out.

Enjoy the freedom!