licensing
201 TopicsThere is an edition of Windows 11 that is still supported on older hardware
Why YSK: On October 14, 2025, Windows 10 support will officially end, meaning PCs still running it will no longer receive security updates, putting users at risk. However, upgrading to Windows 11 isn't an option for many people due to strict hardware requirements, leaving thousands of perfectly functional PCs without official support. Many tools let you bypass hardware checks to install Windows 11 and get monthly updates, but yearly feature updates will fail. What many don't know is that Microsoft released Windows 11 IoT Enterprise in 2024, a version that has relaxed system requirements compared to standard Windows 11. This means: It can run on older hardware that doesn't meet TPM 2.0 or CPU restrictions It still gets security and feature updates It functions just like regular Windows 11, without unnecessary upgrade barriers26Views0likes1CommentWhat is the best PC backup software for Windows 11/10?
Hi everyone, hope to tap into the collective wisdom here. I've put off a proper backup solution for my Windows 11 machine, and I know I play with fire. Every "top 10" list feels like an ad, and I just want real-user opinions. I’m not a pro, so something reliable and user-friendly is key. I look for something that can handle both a solid system image (for a full disaster recovery) and regular file backups. Free is great, but I’m willing to pay a reasonable one-time fee for a "set it and forget it" tool that just works. What is the best PC backup software for Windows in 2026? Any horror stories to avoid? Major thanks for any help you can offer.92Views1like7CommentsSave the date: Windows Office Hours - December 18, 2025
Join us for the next Windows Office Hours on December 18, from 8:00–9:00 AM PT! We’ll have a broad group of product experts, servicing specialists, and engineers ready to connect with you in real time. Topics include Windows, Microsoft Intune, Configuration Manager, Windows 365, Windows Autopilot, security, public sector, FastTrack, and more. Our experts will be available in chat to share guidance, discuss strategies, and answer your questions. For details on how Windows Office Hours works, visit the Windows IT Pro Blog. Can’t join live? Post your questions on the Windows Office Hours: December 18th event page up to 48 hours in advance.42Views0likes0CommentsHad Win 10 (not OEM), Upgraded to Win 11 Cloned Drive But Have New Motherboard
Hi- I started with a retail version of Win 10 Home, upgraded to Win 11 Home but had hardware issues with my Motherboard. After cloning the drive and replacing the Motherboard, I now get the message that windows is not activated. I try entering my Win 10 Home key and get the error 0xc004c060. Not sure how to proceed given I have a legit retail copy of Win 10 Home. Any ideas?43Views0likes3CommentsOEM Activation
Recently upgraded my SSD and whenever I try to reactivate windows 11 on the fresh install, the troubleshooter fails. Is there any sure fire way to contact support to see about them possibly reactivating my license? Better go ahead and add it is a legit activation of windows 11.50Views0likes2CommentsWindows lets me enter the password once only
Hello All and I am new to this forum so, ya, I thought I would start off with a hello to everyone! My problem is this. It started with WMCE2K5. I installed it on my computer and then after a couple of years it crashed and wouldn't start, so I installed it again. With no problems I might add. Over the next couple of years after that I restored my computer with a fresh Windows install (Still Talking About media center edition 2k5) it worked the first time although it WOULD NOT install the second time. It said it had been disabled due to someone publishing the code. So I bought another copy and it worked. I bought windows 10 (fast forward some years later) and installed it on a pc that I built. 2 or 3 years later that computer had some problems and I had to build another. I had a really nice motherboard by ASROCK although it was not compatible w/win 11. So I attempted to install windows 10 although the win 10 password was disabled by Microsoft. I tried calling Microsoft and there was no way to get through. I finally got through and was given the run-around with no answer to my question. I thought for a last chance I could try the Brand New Win11 password on Win10 and it worked! Now I am going to be building a new pc soon (got part of it today) and I am worried about Win11 not working... There are 3 or 5 licenses on this ($300 software) (???) (Which I have never used???). What can I do if they try to rob me of my $300 software? I DO NOT & SHOULD NOT have to buy it again, and for what, so it can quit on me? Buy the way I think Microsoft is an awesome company (all I run is Windows) and I have 2 Xbox Series X consoles with 600 digital games! If someone from Microsoft could get back to me that would be great! I hope everyone has a great rest of their day and a good weekend! Thank You! windowsfreak20Views0likes1Comment500 Million Microsoft Users Say No To Windows 11
Many Microsoft users are expressing strong dissatisfaction with Windows 11, highlighting concerns over privacy, forced updates, and increased system monitoring. A growing number of users feel that the new operating system limits their control, restricts customization, and pushes unwanted features that compromise their digital autonomy.263Views0likes1Comment