There are multiple ways to install Windows 11 on devices that do not meet official support criteria, as well as methods for upgrading from previous versions. Microsoft acknowledges these actions but also states it will not extend support to PCs that fail to meet the designated system requirements.
While manual methods exist, tools like Rufus have greatly simplified the installation process by streamlining various steps. However, recent updates may limit some previously available options.
Last October, I reviewed Flyby11, an open-source tool that provided two different methods for installing the latest version of Windows 11 on unsupported systems. It was easy to use and showed consistent reliability in testing.
The developer of the application has since introduced an improved version that makes the installation process even easier. Now, users only need to drag and drop a Windows 11 ISO file into the specified area of the program interface, and the system will take care of the rest automatically.
Currently, the main hurdle for many users is acquiring the Windows 11 ISO. To facilitate this, Flyby11 includes a link to Microsoft’s official download page.
Alternatively, you can also use Rufus or other programs to access the latest Windows 11 ISO. If you’re interested in downloading directly from Microsoft, here’s the link to their site.
Once you have the ISO file downloaded, simply drag and drop it into the application interface. At this point, the program will start an in-place upgrade immediately.
Additionally, there is another option available. By selecting the link titled “Apply Compatibility Patch to ISO (Clean Install),” you can modify a Windows 11 ISO image. This allows you to carry out a clean installation of the operating system on your own device or any other compatible machine.
It’s worth noting that this method may not work on significantly older PCs, as Microsoft has recently imposed a restriction preventing devices with processors that do not support SSE 4.2 instructions from installing or running recent versions of Windows 11. Nonetheless, most other systems should function without issues.
In-place upgrades have been problematic for Windows 11 users on unsupported hardware. Microsoft does not offer upgrades through Windows Update, and trying to use the official ISO image without modifications will result in a “not compatible” error.
The updated Flyby11 tool addresses this challenge for many users. While it is possible that Microsoft may alter the upgrade process with the upcoming release of Windows 11, Version 25H2, it is only a matter of time before alternative solutions emerge.
Image Source: Mojahid Mottakin / Shutterstock
