Windows 10 will reach its end of life on October 14, 2025. After this date, Microsoft will stop providing security updates and support for Windows 10. This change leaves millions of users searching for ways to upgrade to Windows 11, even if their PCs do not meet the official hardware requirements. Microsoft has set strict requirements for it, including TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and supported CPUs. However, reliable workarounds are available for users who want to keep their devices secure and up to date.
Understanding Windows 11’s System Requirements
Windows 11 requires a compatible processor, TPM 2.0, and Secure Boot. Most devices built before 2017 do not meet all these requirements. Microsoft enforces these checks during the upgrade process, blocking many older PCs from installing Windows 11. The latest version, Windows 11 24H2, now requires CPUs with SSE4.2 and PopCnt instructions, which means PCs from before 2009 (Intel) or 2013 (AMD) are no longer eligible. Despite these restrictions, you can still upgrade your PC with a few extra steps.
Checking Your PC’s Compatibility
Before you start, check your PC’s BIOS mode and TPM status. Open System Information (msinfo32.exe) and look for the BIOS Mode value. If it says UEFI, your PC supports most upgrade methods. Next, run the TPM Management tool (tpm.msc) to check if TPM is enabled and to determine the version you have. These details will help you choose the right upgrade path.
Option 1: Bypass Hardware Checks with a Registry Edit
You can bypass Windows 11’s hardware checks by editing the Windows registry. This method allows you to upgrade directly from Windows 10 without losing your files or apps.
Follow these steps:
- Open Registry Editor (Regedit.exe).
- Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\Setup\MoSetup.
- If the MoSetup key does not exist, create it.
- Right-click in the right pane, select New, then DWORD (32-bit) Value.
- Name the new value AllowUpgradesWithUnsupportedTPMOrCPU.
- Double-click it and set the value to 1.
- Click OK and restart your PC.
After editing the registry, download the official Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft’s website. Mount the ISO file in File Explorer and run Setup.exe. Follow the prompts to upgrade your PC. This process bypasses the CPU and TPM checks, enabling Windows 11 to be installed on most previously unsupported devices.
Option 2: Use Rufus to Create a Custom Installation USB
Rufus is a free tool that helps you create a bootable Windows 11 USB drive with hardware checks removed. This method is ideal if you want to perform a clean installation or if your PC cannot boot from UEFI.
Here’s how to use Rufus:
- Download the Win 11 ISO from Microsoft’s website.
- Download and install Rufus.
- Insert a USB drive with at least 8GB of space.
- Open Rufus and select your USB drive.
- Click SELECT and choose the Windows 11 ISO.
- In the Windows User Experience dialog, check the box to remove hardware requirements.
- Click START to create the bootable USB.
Once Rufus finishes, open the USB drive in File Explorer and run Setup.exe. Do not boot from the USB if you want to keep your files and apps. This process allows you to upgrade to Windows 11, even if your PC fails the official compatibility checks.
Option 3: Try the Flyby11 Tool for Unsupported Hardware
Flyby11 is a new tool designed to help users install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware. It utilises the Windows Server installation method to bypass compatibility checks, allowing for the upgrade or installation of Windows 11 on nearly any PC. The tool is handy for upgrading to the latest Windows 11 24H2 version.
To use Flyby11:
- Download Flyby11 from the developer’s official GitHub page.
- Extract and run the utility.
- Choose the Native (Recommended) method for an in-place upgrade via Server Setup.
- Follow the prompts to upgrade using a Windows 11 ISO image, even if your device does not meet the minimum requirements.
Flyby11 is still in its early stages, so always back up your data before using it. Community feedback suggests it works well, but results may vary depending on your hardware.
What to Expect After Upgrading
Upgrading your PC to Windows 11 using these methods allows you to keep your files and most applications. However, Microsoft does not officially support Windows 11 on unsupported hardware. You may encounter warnings about compatibility, and some updates or features may not function as intended. Security risks may also increase if your device lacks TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot.
Always back up your data before starting the upgrade. If you perform a clean installation, you will need to reinstall your apps and restore your files afterwards.
Final Tips for a Smooth Windows 11 Upgrade
- Always use official ISOs from Microsoft to avoid malware.
- Back up your data before making any changes.
- If you use third-party tools like Rufus or Flyby11, proceed with caution and understand the risks.
- Check your PC’s BIOS and TPM status to pick the best upgrade method.
- If you encounter issues, you can always revert to Windows 10; however, please note that support will end soon.
Windows 11 brings a modern look, better security, and new features. Even if your PC is not officially supported, you can still enjoy Windows 11 with these proven methods. Use the focus keyphrase “Windows 11” to search for the latest guides and updates as new tools and options continue to emerge.