Microsoft has been very firm about the hardware requirements for Windows 11. If you’re wondering whether your PC can run it, this guide breaks down what you need to know—including specs, compatibility tools, and workarounds.
📌 Key Takeaways
- Windows 11 rollout started October 5.
- Not all older PCs are compatible—even if they seem modern.
- Two big hurdles: Secure Boot and TPM 2.0.
- A PC Health Check app helps you assess compatibility.
- There are manual upgrade options, but they come with risk.
🔍 Minimum Hardware Requirements
According to Microsoft, your PC must meet the following minimum specifications:
| Component | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Processor | 1GHz or faster with 2+ cores, 64-bit compatible or Qualcomm SoC |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Storage | 64GB or larger |
| System Firmware | UEFI, Secure Boot capable |
| TPM | Version 2.0 |
“Most modern machines should be able to meet these requirements, right? Well, do I have news for you…”
The Security Requirements: Secure Boot & TPM 2.0
What is Secure Boot?
Secure Boot is a feature that controls which operating systems are allowed to run on your machine.
“On the one hand, it can prevent malware… but on the other hand, it might stop you from installing a second operating system.”
What is TPM?
TPM stands for Trusted Platform Module, a secure crypto processor.
“They’ve been mandatory on Windows machines since 2016… and while they can prevent cyber attacks, they can also potentially allow outside parties to see when you make certain changes to your computer.”
Use the PC Health Check Tool
To make things simpler, Microsoft is re-releasing the PC Health Check app. It tells you:
- ✅ If your PC can run Windows 11
- ❌ If not, why it’s not compatible
- 💡 Possible workarounds
“These hardware requirements are definitely more intense than they were for Windows 10… Devices that didn’t meet the minimum requirements had way more freezes and blue screen crashes.”
Compatible Laptop Models
Here are a few popular laptops confirmed to support Windows 11:
- Dell XPS 13 (or newer)
- HP Spectre x360 14 (or newer)
- Lenovo ThinkPad
- Samsung Galaxy Book Pro
“Along with a bunch of others.”
Windows 11 Workaround (Use with Caution)
If your device is not compatible, you still have options:
Manual Installation Paths:
- Windows Insider Program
- Media Creation Tool
“But be warned: Microsoft will not support this version. No updates. No security patches.”
Recommendation:
If you value stability and updates, stick with Windows 10. Microsoft will support it until 2025.