Forum Discussion
SorenLake
Mar 18, 2025Iron Contributor
What are the minimum requirements to run Windows 11?
Hi everyone, I am planning to install Windows 11 recently, but I am not sure if my computer meets the minimum requirements. I would like to ask you, What are the minimum requirements to run Windows 11? Some of the information online is vague, and I am not sure if my configuration can support it.
I know that Windows 11 has higher hardware requirements than Windows 10, especially the requirements for TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. But I am not sure how these technologies work, and whether my computer supports these features. My computer configuration is an Intel i7 processor, 8GB of memory, and a 256GB SSD. The graphics card is integrated, and I don’t know if it can meet the requirements of Windows 11.
Can anyone tell me in detail what the minimum requirements of Windows 11 are, especially some parts that are easy to overlook? If I don’t meet certain requirements, is there any way to bypass Windows 11 system requirement? Thank you for your help!
- PeterPetersenIron Contributor
The minimum requirements for Windows 11 are indeed higher than those for Windows 10, especially for TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. The specific requirements are:
- Processor: 1 GHz or higher, at least a dual-core 64-bit processor, preferably one that supports DirectStorage.
- Memory: at least 4GB.
- Storage: at least 64GB of storage space.
- Display: 720p resolution or higher, 9-inch or higher screen.
- Graphics: DirectX 12-compatible graphics card, or WDDM 2.0 driver.
- TPM: TPM 2.0 is required (this is a hardware security module).
- Secure Boot: UFI that supports Secure Boot.
The i7 processor, 8GB of memory, and 256GB SSD you mentioned fully meet the requirements. The problem may mainly be with TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. You can go into the BIOS to check whether TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot are enabled, usually in the "Security" or "Boot" tab.
If these requirements are not met, there are ways to bypass them, but they are not recommended because they may affect system stability and security.
- JulioilIron Contributor
If you're missing the boat on things like TPM 2.0 or your CPU’s just too ancient, consider some upgrades. For TPM, if your motherboard has a header, you might just be able to pop in a TPM module. But if your CPU's stuck in the Stone Age, be careful—upgrading that can get pricey and tricky, depending on what your motherboard can handle.
Honestly, when it comes to the minimum requirements to run Windows 11. If you can’t swing those upgrades, just stick with Windows 10 for now. It’s still getting updates until October 2025, so you’re not missing out on too much. Here’s where it gets a bit sketchy. Some folks are getting cheeky and finding ways to install Windows 11 without meeting the requirements by tweaking the registry or using some sneaky installation media. Just a heads up though—if you go this route, you're rolling the dice. Things might get wobbly, and you could miss out on important updates. Only do this if you really know your way around tech and are okay with the possible risks.
- QuincyWilderIron Contributor
Regarding what you mentioned about What are the minimum requirements to run Windows 11, there are actually some key points to note, especially the two technical requirements of TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. The hardware requirements of Windows 11 are higher than those of Windows 10, especially these new security features.
First, the minimum system requirements for Windows 11 include:
- Processor: 1 GHz or faster 64-bit processor, at least dual-core (your Intel i7 processor should be fine).
- Memory: At least 4GB RAM (you have 8GB, which fully meets the requirements).
- Storage: At least 64GB of storage space (your 256GB SSD also meets the requirements).
- Graphics: A graphics card compatible with DirectX 12 or higher (integrated graphics is fine, but make sure it supports it).
- Display: Resolution of at least 720p and greater than 9".
- TPM: TPM 2.0 must be enabled (this is something that many people tend to overlook).
- Secure Boot: Support and enable Secure Boot.
Among them, TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot are the key points that many people overlook. If your motherboard does not support TPM 2.0, you may encounter installation difficulties. You can enter the BIOS settings to check whether TPM is enabled and whether Secure Boot is turned on.
If you find that you do not meet certain requirements, especially TPM 2.0, you can try the following two methods to bypass these restrictions:
Bypass TPM and Secure Boot restrictions by modifying the registry: Some tutorials will guide you to bypass TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot checks by modifying the Windows registry. Although this method allows you to install Windows 11, it is not recommended for long-term use because it may affect system stability and security.
Install using tools: There are some third-party tools that can help you skip the hardware check for Windows 11 installation, such as "Rufus" and other tools. They can help you create an installation media that does not check hardware requirements, but this may also lose Windows 11 Some functions or security guarantees.
- DakotaThunderIron Contributor
If your PC doesn't meet the minimum system requirements to run Windows 11, here are some steps you can take:
1. Check for Compatibility: Use the PC Health Check Tool provided by Microsoft to confirm which specific system requirements are causing the issue. This will give you more details on whether it’s related to the processor, RAM, storage, or secure boot/TPM 2.0 settings.
2. Upgrade Hardware: If your PC falls short in specific areas (like TPM 2.0, a compatible CPU, or RAM), consider upgrading the hardware. For example:
- TPM 2.0: If your motherboard doesn’t support TPM 2.0, you might be able to install a TPM module if the motherboard has a header for it.
- CPU: Some older CPUs are not supported, and upgrading the CPU could be expensive or not feasible depending on your PC's motherboard compatibility.
3. Use Windows 10: Windows 10 will continue receiving support and updates until October 14, 2025, so you can continue using Windows 10 if upgrading your hardware isn’t an option.
4. Install Windows 11 Manually: While it's not officially recommended by Microsoft, some users bypass the requirements to install Windows 11. You can do this by editing registry settings or using installation media to bypass certain checks. However, this may lead to instability or lack of security updates in the future, so it’s not advised unless you are experienced and understand the risks.
Go and try these suggestions if the PC doesn't meet the minimum system requirements to run Windows 11. You can also share your thought!
- AmayaIIron Contributor
What are the minimum requirements to run Windows 11?
1. TPM 2.0: This is a security feature that protects encryption keys and other sensitive data. You can check if your PC has TPM by running tpm.msc in the Run dialog (Win + R). If it shows a TPM version 2.0, you're good.
2. Secure Boot: This ensures that your PC boots using only software that is trusted by the OEM. You can check if your system supports this in the BIOS/UEFI settings.
3. Graphics: While integrated graphics can work fine, make sure it supports DirectX 12 and WDDM 2.x. Many newer integrated graphics (especially from Intel's 8th generation and newer) are compliant.
It sounds like you have an Intel i7 processor and 8GB of RAM, which meet the requirements. However, the key aspects to verify are:
- Whether your CPU is compatible (for Intel, it should be 8th generation or newer).
- The presence of TPM 2.0 and UEFI firmware with Secure Boot.
Bypassing Requirements:
About the minimum requirements to run Windows 11. While it is technically possible to bypass certain Windows 11 requirements (such as TPM and Secure Boot) through registry changes or installation media hacks, Microsoft does not officially support this and doing so may lead to an unsupported configuration. Such actions can result in lack of updates, security risks, and other potential issues. It's generally recommended to follow Microsoft’s guidelines for a stable and secure experience.
- PorterwerIron Contributor
What are the minimum requirements to run Windows 11? To run Windows 11, your computer must meet the following minimum system requirements:
- Processor: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with at least 2 cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or system on a chip (SoC). Intel processors: 8th generation or later (e.g., i7-8xxx).
- RAM: 4 GB or more.
- Storage: 64 GB or larger storage device.
- System Firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable.
- TPM: TPM version 2.0 is required. TPM (Trusted Platform Module) is a security feature that stores cryptographic keys.
- Graphics card: DirectX 12 compatible graphics / WDDM 2.x.
- Internet connection: Internet connectivity is necessary to perform certain features and updates. A Microsoft account and internet connectivity are required to set up the device for the first time.