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How to bypass Windows 11 requirements for old devices
Replacing `appraiserres.dll` is an ISO modification method that can be used to bypass Windows 11 requirements 2026; this is done by replacing the compatibility check file with the corresponding file from a Windows 10 ISO, but it disables the hardware validation tool built into the Windows 11 installer. This workaround does not work on the latest Windows 11 24H2 and later versions.
How to Bypass Windows 11 Requirements 2026
Step 1: Download the Windows 11 ISO file and extract all its contents to a local folder.
Step 2: Download any version of the Windows 10 ISO file and extract it separately.
Step 3: In the extracted Windows 10 folder, locate the `sources\appraiserres.dll` file.
Step 4: Copy this DLL file and overwrite the file with the same name in the extracted Windows 11 folder.
Finally, run setup.exe from the modified Windows 11 folder to begin the installation.
The file replacement method can bypass Windows 11's hardware detection for older system versions, but it does not support 24H2 or later versions; therefore, if you are using the latest Windows 11 image, this method will not work.
Advantages
- No need to use the command line or modify the registry; it’s a simple file replacement process
- Provides a stable workaround for Windows 11 21H2 and 22H2 installation media
- Works for both USB installers and installations launched from a local folder
Disadvantages
- Does not work with Windows 11 24H2 and subsequent official releases
- Requires downloading two full ISO files, which take up a significant amount of storage space
- Modifying the installation files may cause errors during installation for certain custom ISO files
- Official hardware security verification is disabled during the installation process