PM Images/Getty ImagesUpdate: Microsoft has recently made it more challenging to bypass compatibility checks as of October 1, 2024. However, there are workarounds available for most modern PCs. Unfortunately, older devices, particularly those using AMD processors, may face difficulties. The instructions in this post have been updated to reflect these changes.
On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will cease providing security updates to Windows 10 unless users opt to pay a high fee to join the Extended Security Updates program. Additionally, Microsoft will begin charging for Windows 10 updates in the upcoming year.
Attempting to upgrade to Windows 11 on an older PC will result in a notification that the device does not meet the requirements due to the CPU not being on the list of compatible processors. Microsoft has emphasized that these requirements will not be altered. Furthermore, PCs lacking a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0 will also encounter obstacles.
While these are the official guidelines, it is beneficial to delve into the details. Some restrictions prevent automatic Windows 11 upgrades using Windows Update or the Windows 11 Installation Assistant. Nonetheless, there are supported workarounds available for most PCs capable of running Windows 10, as detailed in ZDNET’s Windows 11 FAQ.
To utilize the workaround in option 1, which involves bypassing CPU checks and accepting any TPM version, the PC must meet all other Windows 11 requirements. It must be set up to start using UEFI instead of legacy BIOS, support Secure Boot (although not mandatory), and have a TPM enabled (version 1.2 is acceptable). It is crucial to confirm these details on the PC in question before proceeding with the upgrade.
For PCs unable to switch from Legacy BIOS to UEFI or lacking a TPM option, an undocumented hack can be used to bypass compatibility checks. This involves using the Rufus utility to perform the upgrade. However, it is essential to have Rufus version 4.6 or later to ensure compatibility with Microsoft’s recent changes.
It is worth noting that a new set of restrictions introduced in the Windows 11 update require CPUs to support specific instructions (SSE4.2 and PopCnt). Most Intel CPUs from 2009 onwards and AMD CPUs from 2013 onwards should meet these requirements.
Users planning a clean installation of Windows 11 can boot from installation media and run Windows Setup to skip the CPU compatibility check. After installation, apps need to be reinstalled, data files restored, and system preferences adjusted.
To simplify the process of bypassing compatibility checks, users can follow the steps outlined in option 1 or use the Rufus utility as described in option 2. By following these instructions, users can upgrade to Windows 11 even on older PCs that do not meet the official requirements.