Forum Discussion
CyrusIronwood
Jan 13, 2026Iron Contributor
Why can't I update my Windows 10 to 11 on my pc?
Downloaded the Windows 11 ISO version 25H2 from Microsoft, hoping this could be fine for upgrading Windows 10 to Windows 11 25H2 on my Dell desktop PC. After waiting a couple of minutes, the Windows ...
CalahanReed
Jan 13, 2026Iron Contributor
What You Can Do About It if can't Update Windows 10 to 11:
1. First, Verify All Requirements Officially:
- Download and run the official PC Health Check app from Microsoft. It will tell you exactly which requirements your PC fails.
2. If You Want to Proceed Anyway (At Your Own Risk):
- Important: Microsoft does not support Windows 11 on your hardware. This means you may not receive driver updates or critical security updates in the future, and encountering bugs or instability is more likely.
- Modify the Windows 11 Installation: There are methods to bypass the CPU and TPM checks during installation using the ISO you already have. This involves editing the Windows registry on the setup screen or modifying the appraiserres.dll file in the ISO. You can find detailed guides for "install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware" from reputable tech sites.
- Clean Install vs. Upgrade: A clean install (wiping Windows 10) using a modified USB installer is often more successful than an in-place upgrade on unsupported hardware.
3. The Recommended & Safer Approach:
- Stay on Windows 10. It is still fully supported with security updates until October 14, 2025. You can continue using your perfectly capable PC safely until then.
- After that date, you should plan for a new PC that meets modern security standards, or accept the risks of running an unsupported OS.
To Check TPM & Secure Boot on your Dell If can't update Windows 10 to 11:
1. Restart your PC and tap F2 repeatedly to enter BIOS/UEFI Setup.
2. Look under Security or Advanced sections for:
- TPM: Look for "TPM Security," "PTT" (Intel Platform Trust Technology), or "AMD fTPM." Ensure it's enabled and set to version 2.0.
- Secure Boot: Look under the Boot or Security tab. Ensure it's set to Enabled.