In 2021, Microsoft introduced Windows 11 as the successor to Windows 10, establishing a new set of system requirements that clearly set it apart from its predecessors.
Among the primary requirements were the need for a relatively modern CPU and support for TPM 2.0. Devices that did not meet these standards were deemed ineligible for an upgrade to Windows 11 via Windows Update.
Although Microsoft has offered alternatives for installing Windows 11 on hardware that does not meet these specifications, the company has warned users about the possible risks. According to Microsoft’s guidelines, devices that fail to comply with the system requirements for Windows 11 will not receive updates.
While it has been possible to apply cumulative updates to unsupported Windows 11 installations thus far, this does not extend to new feature updates.
This year, Microsoft tightened its grip by blocking one method of installation for the OS on incompatible hardware and also barred the installation of Windows 11, version 24H2, on very old systems, even though prior versions were compatible.
Slow Adoption
StatCounter, a third-party analytics service monitoring traffic across over 1.5 million websites, indicates that Windows 10 remains the predominant operating system on Windows PCs.
As of November 2024, Windows 10 holds a usage share of more than 61 percent, with Windows 11 holding the second position at approximately 35 percent.
Windows 10 sees a monthly decline of about one percentage point, paralleling the gain made by Windows 11. With a mere eleven months of support remaining for Windows 10, it is clear that an increase in upgrades is essential to maintain usage past Windows 10 until October 2025.
By that time, millions of devices may not have been upgraded to Windows 11 or replaced with compatible models, leaving those users without support unless they choose to opt for extended security updates.
For the first time, Microsoft is providing these updates to home users, along with businesses and enterprise clients. Home users will have the option to subscribe for a one-year extension, whereas businesses and enterprise customers can extend support for up to three years.
**System Requirements Remain Firm**
Microsoft could ease some of the pressure on its customers while also contributing to environmental sustainability by reconsidering the system requirements for Windows 11.
However, at least one requirement remains non-negotiable. According to Microsoft employee Steven Hosking, in a detailed post on the Windows IT Pro Blog, TPM 2.0 is an essential element for Windows 11.
The trusted platform module is used for cryptographic operations and data storage, preventing any devices lacking support from receiving upgrades, although workarounds are still available, as previously noted.
Given Microsoft’s steadfast position, the only other requirement that might be reconsidered is the processor stipulation, which could potentially open the door for systems with TPM but older processors to upgrade to Windows 11.
Concluding Thoughts
While it appears unlikely that Microsoft will relax its requirements, external factors may impact the company’s strategy.
With over 100 million incompatible systems in play and the risk of losing these customers by October 2025, Microsoft may need to reassess its uncompromising approach if users show reluctance to replace their functioning PCs.
Windows 10 users have several alternatives aside from merely moving on to Windows 11.
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