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FlynnArcher's avatar
FlynnArcher
Iron Contributor
Dec 16, 2025

How can I upgrade or install Windows 11 26H1 on unsupported computer?

My daily working machine is an older but still capable machine (i7-7700K, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSS, no TPM 2.0) that Microsoft has officially left behind. I'm aware of the compatibility warnings, but I ne...
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Harodman's avatar
Harodman
Silver Contributor
Dec 16, 2025

Ventooy is a free, open-source bootable USB tool that lets you boot operating system ISOs directly without reformatting the USB each time.

You install Ventooy once on a USB drive, then simply copy ISO files (Windows, Linux, recovery tools) onto it. For Windows 11 26H1 on unsupported PCs, Ventooy is popular because it works well with registry-based requirement bypasses or preconfigured answer files, allowing you to install Windows 11 without TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, or supported CPU checks.

Pros

No need to recreate the USB for each ISO

Supports multiple Windows versions and builds on one USB

Works with clean, unmodified Microsoft ISOs

Ideal for testing 26H1, 25H2, Insider, and recovery tools

Cons

No built-in GUI for automatic Windows 11 bypass

Requires manual registry edits or answer files

Slightly more technical than Rufus or Flyby11

In short, Ventooy is an excellent choice if you want maximum flexibility and reuse when installing Windows 11 26H1 on unsupported PCs, especially for advanced users or testers who work with multiple ISOs.

 

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