Windows 11 Requirements

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Windows 11 is the latest version of Microsoft's popular operating system, which promises to deliver a more modern and intuitive user experience. However, unlike previous Windows versions, Windows 11 has raised the bar for system requirements, which means that not all computers will be able to upgrade to the new operating system.

To run Windows 11, Microsoft has introduced a new set of hardware requirements that include newer processors, increased memory, and advanced security features. This has created some confusion and concern among users who are wondering if their computers meet the requirements to run Windows 11.

In this context, it is important to understand the requirements for Windows 11 and what it means for users who want to upgrade to the new operating system. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of the Windows 11 requirements, what computers are compatible with the new OS, and what users can do if their current computer does not meet the necessary criteria to run Windows 11.

Windows 11 requirements

Processor: Windows 11 requires a 64-bit processor with at least 1 GHz clock speed and 2 or more cores.

RAM: Windows 11 requires a minimum of 4 GB of RAM for the 64-bit version.

Storage: Windows 11 requires a minimum of 64 GB of storage for the 64-bit version. The device must also have system firmware that supports UEFI.

Display: Windows 11 requires a display that is capable of at least 720p resolution. Devices must also have a DirectX 12 compatible graphics card or integrated GPU with a WDDM 2.0 driver.

Internet connection: Windows 11 requires an internet connection for certain features and updates.

Compatibility check: Windows 11 has a compatibility checker that can be run to check if a device meets the minimum requirements for the operating system.

System security: Windows 11 has specific hardware requirements for security, including a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0, Secure Boot, and virtualization-based security (VBS).

Application compatibility: Windows 11 may not be compatible with some older applications, and users may need to upgrade or replace them to work with the new operating system.

Upgrade process: Windows 11 has specific requirements and steps for upgrading from older versions of Windows, and users should be aware of the process before attempting to upgrade.

Some Additional Requirements For Windows 11

Reliability

The support of both the OEM and the IHV is closely connected with the dependability that can be maintained over time. The processors that are supported by Windows 11 fall under the OEM and IHV support categories, and they make use of current DCH drivers. This is made possible by the fact that Windows Update can now handle both types of software. 

As a consequence of this coordination, system drivers are correctly installed and fully operational after being updated, which results in a dependable experience while upgrading to Windows 11.  This was the case when comparing machines that were running Windows. Machines that were capable of meeting the criteria delivered a 99.8 percent error-free experience, which was efficiently controlled by OEMs and IHVs via the use of current driver update management. Additionally, while running on incompatible hardware, the likelihood of an app hanging increases by 17%, and first-party app crashes increase by 43%.

Security

The default level of security has been increased in Windows 11, making it the most secure version of Windows ever released. We designed a security baseline for Windows 11 that addresses rising threats that software alone is unable to tackle by utilizing more than 8.2 trillion signals from Microsoft's threat intelligence, performing reverse engineering on attacks, and receiving input from leading experts such as the NSA, UK National Cyber Security Center, and Canadian Centre for Cyber Security. We have meticulously established the hardware requirements, basing them on an examination of the most effective defenses, and the default security features for those needs. The Microsoft data collection of prevented attacks in 2020 served as the basis for this research. 

UEFI Secure Boot 

Because of the UEFI Secure Start requirement, a computer is only allowed to boot up with code that has been digitally signed either by the company that built the device, the company that manufactured the silicon, or Microsoft. It accomplishes this goal by guaranteeing that every code is signed by a predetermined set of organizations and by storing cryptographic hashes in the hardware, which can then be transferred to the cloud to be verified for their integrity. 

If it is possible to compromise a machine before the operating system boots up, then all kernel, user, and endpoint security mechanisms may be rendered utterly useless. The "NotPetya" assault, which resulted in hundreds of millions of dollars in losses, made use of legacy bios to insert ransomware malware before booting. This vulnerability may now be prevented via Secure Boot. The benefits of Secure Boot as well as its best practices have been certified by the National Security Agency of the United States. 

Trusted Platform Module(Tpm)

The requirement that Windows 11 include a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) allows Windows 11 to be a genuine password-less operating system. This addresses this issue. According to the Microsoft digital defence report for the fiscal year 2020, the company found that businesses had 67% fewer instances of data compromise when they disabled authentication & shifted their focus to multi-factor authentication (MFA) or password-less-based systems such as Windows Hello. 

When a user logs in with Hello, the TPM collaborates with a personal identification number (PIN) or a biometric camera and fingerprint reader to safely hold a secret in hardware. This secret replaces the user's password during the authentication process and is significantly more difficult to steal or fake. The Trusted Platform Module (TPM) is used in a wide variety of additional Windows 11 features, including Bitlocker and Device Encryption, both of which utilize the TPM to hold disc encryption keys. 

Benefits of Windows 11

Better Performance

Windows 11 requires a modern PC with a powerful processor, ample memory, and a fast storage device. These requirements enable the operating system to run more efficiently and deliver better performance. Windows 11 has been optimized to work with modern hardware, and the requirements ensure that users have the necessary hardware to run the operating system smoothly.

Improved Security

Windows 11 has several new security features designed to protect your device and your data. The operating system includes hardware-based security features, such as secure boot, virtualization-based security (VBS), and hypervisor-protected code integrity (HVCI), which require modern hardware. The requirements ensure that users have the necessary hardware to take advantage of these security features and protect their devices and data.

Enhanced User Experience

Windows 11 comes with a modern and intuitive user interface that is designed to make it easier to use the operating system. The requirements ensure that users have the necessary hardware to run the new user interface and take advantage of the new features, such as Snap Layouts, Snap Groups, and Virtual Desktops.

Better Compatibility

Windows 11 has been designed to be more compatible with modern hardware and software. The higher system requirements ensure that users have the necessary hardware to run the latest software and take advantage of new features, such as DirectX 12 Ultimate, which delivers better gaming performance.

Future-proofing

Windows 11 is designed to be a long-term investment for users. The higher system requirements ensure that users have the necessary hardware to run the operating system for many years to come. The requirements also ensure that users have the necessary hardware to take advantage of future updates and improvements to the operating system.

Reduced Technical Support Costs

By requiring modern hardware, Windows 11 reduces technical support costs for users and IT departments. The operating system is designed to work with modern hardware, which reduces the likelihood of hardware-related issues. This, in turn, reduces the number of support calls and the time required to resolve issues, which can save users and IT departments time and money.

Compatibility And Eligibility

Compatibility and eligibility are key factors to consider when it comes to upgrading to Windows 11. Not all devices will be able to upgrade to this new operating system, so it's important to understand the requirements and check whether your device is eligible.

One of the main requirements for Windows 11 is hardware compatibility. Microsoft has set certain minimum and recommended hardware requirements for devices to be able to run Windows 11. These requirements include a processor, RAM, storage, graphics, and more. In addition, devices must have a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0 or higher, which is a security feature that provides hardware-based encryption for data protection.

Another factor to consider is software compatibility. Windows 11 will only run on certain versions of Windows 10 and newer operating systems. It is also important to note that some applications and hardware drivers may not be compatible with Windows 11, so it's important to check for compatibility before upgrading.

Microsoft has released a PC Health Check app to check if your device is eligible for Windows 11. This app scans your device's hardware and software and lets you know if your device meets the requirements to upgrade to Windows 11. If your device is not eligible, you may need to upgrade or replace certain hardware components to make it compatible.

In summary, compatibility and eligibility are critical considerations when it comes to upgrading to Windows 11. By checking your device's hardware and software compatibility and using the PC Health Check app, you can ensure a smooth upgrade process and enjoy the latest features and improvements offered by Windows 11.

Upgrading to Windows 11

Check your device's eligibility: Use the PC Health Check app to check if your device meets the minimum hardware and software requirements for Windows 11. You may need to upgrade certain hardware components if your device is not eligible.

Backup your files: Before upgrading, it is recommended to back up your important files and data to an external hard drive or cloud storage service.

Download and install Windows 11: Windows 11 can be downloaded and installed through the Windows Update feature. You will receive a notification on your device when the update is available. 

Allow sufficient time: The upgrade process can take a while, so make sure to allow sufficient time for the installation to complete. During the upgrade, your device may restart multiple times.

Customize settings: Once Windows 11 is installed, you can customize settings such as language, time zone, and privacy preferences. You can also choose to keep your existing files and apps or perform a clean installation.

Install updates: After upgrading to Windows 11, it is important to keep your device up to date with the latest security patches and software updates.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Windows 11 is the latest operating system from Microsoft and offers a host of new features and improvements. However, upgrading to Windows 11 is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and compatibility and eligibility are key factors to consider.

When it comes to hardware requirements, Windows 11 has more stringent specifications compared to its predecessor, Windows 10. This means that some older devices may not be able to run Windows 11 without hardware upgrades, such as a newer processor or additional RAM. Additionally, Windows 11 requires a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0 or higher, which is a hardware-based encryption feature for data protection.

The software requirements are also important to consider. Windows 11 will only run on certain versions of Windows 10 and newer operating systems. Additionally, some applications and hardware drivers may not be compatible with Windows 11, so it's important to check for compatibility before upgrading.

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