Microsoft has confirmed that it will not be changing the system requirements for Windows 11. This decision may disappoint Windows 10 users with outdated hardware.
Microsoft stands firm on Windows 11’s minimum specifications
Recently, there was some speculation regarding whether Microsoft would ease the system requirements for upgrading older PCs to Windows 11, especially for units that lack hardware-based security measures such as Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0. Is this stance a demonstration of commitment to security, or does it reflect a rigid approach?
An updated support article on Microsoft’s website, which was highlighted by Neowin, makes it explicitly clear that “Windows 11 minimum system requirements remain unchanged.” Additionally, Microsoft is advising users who have installed Windows 11 on non-compliant devices to downgrade promptly. This assertive guidance has raised concerns and may come across as insensitive.
Set to mark its tenth anniversary next year, Windows 10 was initially launched in 2015 and is scheduled for retirement by Microsoft. Throughout its lifecycle, the company has extended considerable support for this operating system. Nevertheless, the looming concern is that millions of devices will stop receiving security updates once Windows 10 reaches its end of life in October 2025. The repercussions of software vulnerabilities were highlighted in June 2024, when a flaw in CrowdStrike’s security software affected millions of PCs globally. The potential implications for numerous Windows machines facing security threats could be significantly worse.
Windows 10 continues to be preferred by users
Data from Statcounter indicates that 61.82% of desktop users are still using Windows 10, while Windows 11 captures a mere 34.94%. In the gaming realm, a slight shift is seen; Steam’s Hardware Survey reports that 43.31% of its users are on Windows 10, compared to 52.98% using Windows 11.
These surveys highlight that nearly half of PC users worldwide have yet to transition to Windows 11. This may be due to several factors, such as hardware limitations or financial constraints. Many users are likely content with their existing Windows 10 experience, and that is understandable. If a PC is functioning well on Windows 10, there is little incentive to upgrade. It brings to mind the Bernie Sanders meme, “I’m once again asking for your support.” Come on, Microsoft! A bit of empathy would go a long way.
Regarding web browsers, platforms like Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Firefox, and Brave Browser are expected to continue functioning with Windows 10 for the foreseeable future. The same is likely true for many applications. The scenario is quite complicated; dismissing a large section of users simply because they are using an older operating system would be unwise. Companies must avoid alienating their user base.
Maintaining security updates for Windows 10 users shouldn’t require overwhelming resources. Given the significant similarities between Windows 10 and 11, Microsoft could relatively easily adapt patches available for Windows 11 and provide them to Windows 10 users. Instead, the company has chosen a different path, introducing Extended Support Updates for Windows 10, which come at an annual fee of $30 for security patches.
Users have a few options: upgrade their systems, purchase new hardware, or switch to Linux. Additionally, third-party tools like InControl can help prevent Windows 11 updates, with more information available on this topic. Personally, I use the app to block the Windows 11 24H2 update until any issues are addressed.
As a trillion-dollar corporation, Microsoft has both the capability and the obligation to ensure that security updates are accessible for older PCs, rather than leaving users feeling neglected and uncertain.
Image Source: Wachiwit / Shutterstock
