Did Microsoft Change Windows 11 Requirements? – Here’s the Truth

Article Summary

• Windows 11 Requirements Have Not Changed: Despite rumors, Microsoft has not relaxed Windows 11 hardware requirements. The system still enforces strict specifications, including TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and approved processors.
• Unsupported Installs Come with Risks: While advanced users can bypass some restrictions, running Windows 11 on unsupported hardware can lead to security vulnerabilities, lack of updates, and system instability.
• Misinformation Is Widespread: Many tech blogs and influencers have misinterpreted Microsoft’s guidelines, leading to confusion. Always rely on official sources like Microsoft’s website for accurate information on system requirements.

We all know that updating to the latest version of Microsoft Windows is vital for security and performance. However, the team at my Computer Works knows how system requirements and upgrade solutions can be confusing, particularly when there are misleading news stories about changing Windows 11 requirements.

Unfortunately, misinformation spreads like wildfire on disreputable tech blogs and YouTube channels, leaving many to wonder if older PCs can easily download and install Windows 11. In this article, we will demystify the confusion, review the Specs for Windows 11, and discuss the risks of running Windows 11 on unsupported hardware.

Have Windows 11 Requirements Changed? No!

Are you questioning if Windows 11 Requirements have changed? Despite much online chatter, Microsoft Windows is not altering Windows 11 Requirements this year. Unfortunately, many tech sites, social media influencers, and YouTubers have spread incorrect information about supposedly changing hardware requirements for Windows 11 without providing sources. Some claim Microsoft is “relaxing” or “silently supporting” old PCs for running Windows 11, but this is not the case.

These false claims arose when Microsoft modified some of its guidelines in late 2024 to explain better how advanced users could install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware. The decision wasn’t a shift in policy but rather a reminder that bypassing restrictions is possible but not advisable. Some technology sites erroneously believed this represented a loosening of restrictions, thus creating confusion.

A recent official Microsoft article on installing Windows 11 on devices that don’t meet the minimum system requirements confirms this. It explicitly states that unsupported devices are not officially supported and may not receive updates, including security patches. Even worse, many of these older Windows 10 devices are reaching their end-of-life in October 2025, meaning upgrading them to Windows 11 does nothing to extend their lifespan or security. In reality, users are just delaying the inevitable need to transition to a new device. 

In short, Windows 11’s system requirements remain unchanged, and the specifications are still strict. Any claims to the contrary are either misinformed or intentionally misleading.

What Microsoft Says About Unsupported Installs

Microsoft has never supported running Windows 11 on PCs with low specs. However, the company affirms that advanced users can install Windows 11 manually using workaround methods, such as editing installation files or avoiding some system checks. 

That said, doing so does not make these systems viable for long-term use. Microsoft has said: ‘Installing Windows 11 on unsupported hardware is unsafe, unpredictable, and highly inadvisable.’

For anyone inquiring whether to upgrade to Windows 11, the best and safest advice is simple – yes, but only if your system is compatible with the official Windows 11 requirements. 

If your computer does not meet these standards, upgrading is not a solution, and instead, transitioning to a new, supported device is the best option. If assistance is required to verify system compatibility or if you want expert PC Support, My Computer Works can help.

What are the Windows 11 24H2 Hardware Requirements?

When the release of Windows 11 24H2 dropped, Microsoft introduced a new CPU requirement that further tightened the list of compatible devices. In addition to Secure Boot, UEFI firmware, and TPM 2.0, processors must now support the SSE 4.2 instruction set.

SSE 4.2 is a distinct set of CPU instructions that optimizes system performance and security, particularly for advanced encryption and multimedia handling features. The vast majority of today’s processors include SSE 4.2 capability, but some older processors – some of them once able to run on Windows 11 using bypass mechanisms – do not.

With this latest requirement, installing Windows 11 24H2 is no longer feasible for most older processors, even if bypassing TPM or Secure Boot validation is possible. The old hacks for unsupported hardware to be able to use Windows 11 are no longer usable since the system actively enforces SSE 4.2 at setup and update time. 

This is yet another move by Microsoft to phase out obsolete hardware, reinforcing that older computers will not be viable in the long term, even with workarounds to get Windows 11 to work.

Risks of Running Windows 11 on Unsupported Hardware

If you are considering installing the Windows 11 Upgrade on a system that does not comply with the Windows hardware requirements, there are risks involved since many of these devices are already reaching the end of their usable life. 

As you now know, Microsoft explained that unsupported PCs are not eligible for receiving updates and, as a result, may be denied security patches and important bug fixes. That leaves you vulnerable to malware, ransomware, and emerging cyber threats.

Aside from security risks, unsupported PCs also have performance issues. Since your hardware is unlikely to be optimized for Windows 11 Home or Pro, you can experience random system crashes, slow system performance, or conflicts between drivers. In addition, some native features in Windows 11 might not function as expected on older motherboards and processors.

Basically, upgrading an old, unsupported computer to Windows 11 is not only inconvenient but it is also unsafe. Rather than prolonging the use of outdated hardware, the best approach is to transition to a fully supported system as soon as possible.

If you are unsure if your computer is fully compatible, My Computer Works can review your system and offer trusted PC repair or upgrade advice. We strongly recommend replacing unsupported devices instead of attempting unsafe workarounds. 

Don’t Fall for the Misinformation

Ultimately, Microsoft hasn’t changed the Windows 11 Requirements. The requirements remain strict, requiring TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and current-generation processors on Microsoft’s approved list. As much as some YouTubers and enthusiasts would like us to believe, there hasn’t been a sneaky policy change allowing older hardware to run Windows 11.

Misinformation is often spread by content creators who are interested in clicks rather than verifiable information. That is why it is essential for readers not to trust viral information automatically and instead use credible sources such as Microsoft’s official website or research-based articles on trusted sites.

The Wrap-Up: Microsoft Windows 11 Requirements Have Not Changed

Now you know that Microsoft did not change Windows 11 requirements. Additionally, with Windows 10’s end-of-life approaching, the discussion isn’t just about Windows 11 requirements; it’s about the fact that old computers are simply no longer safe to use.

If you are wondering if you should upgrade to Windows 11, the best course is to review your hardware to ensure it aligns with Microsoft’s Windows hardware requirements and consult a professional if you are in doubt.

Let My Computer Works and our experts assist you. We do not recommend keeping outdated, unsupported computers, as doing so creates an unsafe computing environment. Instead, we can help you transition to a new, fully supported system. We also offer several services like computer repair and virus protection that can help ensure you always have an enjoyable computer experience. Contact us here today!