Forum Discussion
HarHoare
Aug 06, 2025Iron Contributor
How to fix "The PC must support secure boot" error during windows 11 install
The pc has a decent hardware profile, including an Intel i9 processor, 32GB installed RAM and 1 TB SSD. Currently, Windows 10 Home is on the PC. When I was trying to upgrade to Windows 11 from 24H2 I...
ProAnss
Aug 06, 2025Iron Contributor
The error "This PC doesn't currently meet Windows 11 system requirements. The PC must support Secure Boot" means your motherboard's firmware (BIOS/UEFI) doesn't have Secure Boot enabled. You cannot install Windows 11 without enabling it. Don't try to disable it or work around it. It's a critical security feature.
Here's how to troubleshoot and fix "The PC must support Secure Boot" error:
- Check your motherboard's documentation: The best place to find information about enabling Secure Boot in your specific BIOS/UEFI is your motherboard manufacturer's support website. Search for your motherboard model (e.g., "ASUS ROG STRIX Z690-A BIOS Secure Boot"). The documentation will tell you precisely how to enable it within the BIOS setup menu.
- Enter the BIOS/UEFI setup: You usually need to press a key (e.g., Delete, F2, F10, F12) during the boot process before Windows 10 loads to enter the BIOS setup. The specific key varies by motherboard. Look for a message on the screen during the startup process.
- Enable Secure Boot: Once in the BIOS/UEFI setup, navigate to the section related to security, boot options, or similar. Look for an option called "Secure Boot" or a similar name. Enable it. You may also need to enable "Boot Mode" and set it to UEFI. Crucially, look for any additional options related to Secure Boot such as a selection of boot options (e.g., "Legacy" or "UEFI"). Choose UEFI.
- Save changes and exit: After enabling Secure Boot, save the changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI setup. Your computer will reboot.
- Try installing Windows 11 again: Now, try the Windows 11 installation again. If the error still appears, it's likely a different problem.