Microsoft has recently updated its list of supported Intel and AMD processors for Windows 11, adding some new Ryzen chips and removing some older Intel CPUs. However, some users have been able to install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware using various bypass methods, such as third-party tools or modifying the installation files. This may soon change, as Microsoft may be working on blocking Windows 11 installs on unsupported CPUs.
According to a report by Deskmodder, one of its forum members was unable to install Windows 11 build 25905 on their Intel Core 2 Duo T6500 system, even though previous builds worked fine. The same issue occurred with an AMD Phenom II P650 CPU. Build 25902 was notable because Microsoft revealed it is ending support for Arm32 UWP apps.
The report suggests that Microsoft has made some changes to the installation file, which is responsible for checking the system compatibility during the installation process. Bypass options like Rufus and Ventoy, which allow users to create bootable USB drives with Windows 11, may not be enough to overcome this blockage. The same goes for the TPM bypass, which tricks the system into thinking that a PC has a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chip.
Microsoft has not officially announced this change, and it is possible that it is only testing it in the Canary channel of the Windows Insider Program. However, if this change makes it to the stable release of Windows 11, it could mean that users with unsupported hardware will not be able to upgrade to the new operating system, or receive security updates if they have already installed it.
Microsoft Standing Firm on Windows 11 Requirements
Microsoft has been firm on its system requirements for Windows 11, which include a TPM chip, a Secure Boot capable motherboard, and a minimum of 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. The company claims that these requirements are necessary to ensure a secure and reliable experience for users.
However, many users have expressed dissatisfaction with these requirements, especially since some relatively recent CPUs are not supported. Microsoft has also made some mistakes in offering Windows 11 upgrades to users with incompatible hardware, or giving false positives with its PC Health Check app.
While some users may be tempted to bypass the system requirements and install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware, Microsoft warns that this could lead to potential issues and damages that may not be covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. Users who want to try Windows 11 on unsupported hardware are advised to do so at their own risk, and back up their important data before attempting the installation.
Last Updated on November 8, 2024 12:09 pm CET
