installing Windows 11 Archives

Winsage

April 7, 2025

Windows 11 Update Finally Lets You Install on Older PCs

Microsoft has relaxed its hardware requirements for Windows 11, allowing older PCs that were previously excluded to install the operating system. This change comes as Windows 10 approaches its end of life in 2025 and aims to provide users with access to the latest security updates and features. Older processors that were once deemed incompatible are now eligible to run Windows 11, reflecting a shift towards a more inclusive approach by Microsoft. Users with previously incompatible PCs may now upgrade to enjoy new features like a redesigned Start Menu and improved multitasking capabilities, although they should verify their system's compatibility and performance.

Winsage

April 1, 2025

Microsoft has disabled the popular ‘bypassnro’ Windows 11 sign-in workaround in the latest Insider build, but there exists another

The Windows 11 Insider Preview build version 26200.5516 (KB5054687) has removed the bypassnro.cmd script, a tool used to bypass the requirement for a Microsoft account during initial setup. Users can still use alternative methods to install Windows 11 without a Microsoft account, such as the Rufus method, which allows the creation of a bootable USB installation drive that disables account requirements. Another method involves accessing a hidden local account setup screen via the developer console by entering a specific command after the initial installation. The removal of the bypassnro script raises concerns about a potential crackdown on workarounds for mandatory Microsoft accounts.

Winsage

March 31, 2025

Here’s a new trick to installing Windows 11 without a Microsoft account

Microsoft removed the BypassNRO.cmd script from the preview versions of Windows 11 for Insiders on the Dev Channel to enhance security and user experience, ensuring all users exit setup with internet connectivity and a Microsoft Account. The script previously allowed users to bypass the Microsoft Account requirement during installation. A new workaround has been discovered by Windows Insider testers, allowing users to create a local account during installation by entering a specific command in the command prompt. The removal of BypassNRO.cmd currently affects only the preview version, while the script remains available in public versions of Windows 11. It is expected that the script will be phased out from all Windows 11 PCs later this year.

Winsage

March 20, 2025

Microsoft removes another roadblock for Windows 11 24H2

Microsoft has lifted the security block on the rollout of Windows 11 24H2 for users with Asphalt 8 installed, which was previously implemented due to the game crashing or becoming unresponsive after the update. The update blocker ID for IT administrators is 52796746. Microsoft confirmed that the problem has been resolved and the update block has been removed. It may take up to 48 hours for the update to become available via Windows Update, and restarting the device can expedite this process. Users still facing issues can try a Registry/Group Policy hack to update directly.

Winsage

March 20, 2025

Microsoft lifts Windows 11 upgrade block after Asphalt 8 crash fix

Microsoft has lifted an upgrade block that prevented players of Asphalt 8: Airborne from transitioning to Windows 11 24H2 due to compatibility issues. The game had over 322,000 ratings and around 470 million players, but users experienced freezing issues and error messages after the Windows update. A compatibility hold was implemented, identified by safeguard ID 52796746, which affected devices running versions 22H2 and 23H2. Microsoft announced that the known issue has been addressed and the safeguard hold has been lifted, with the update expected to be offered within 48 hours. Additionally, Microsoft removed a block related to the Easy Anti-Cheat app affecting Intel Alder Lake+ processors, and lifted restrictions for AutoCAD users and PCs with Auto HDR enabled. The company is also working on resolving other compatibility concerns related to various software and hardware.

Winsage

March 10, 2025

Microsoft: Don’t fall for unwanted apps on Windows 10, clean install Windows 11 ASAP

Microsoft has revised its support documentation to highlight the importance of recognizing unsafe applications on Windows 10 and encourages users to upgrade to Windows 11. Applications on a PC can be categorized into three groups: Clean apps (from the Microsoft Store or pre-installed), malware apps (from untrusted sources), and potentially unwanted apps (PUAs) which may not be malicious but can clutter user experience. Microsoft warns that after October 2025, Windows 10 will no longer receive updates, increasing vulnerability to cyber threats. Upgrading to Windows 11 enhances security with features like Smart App Control. To clean install Windows 11, users need the Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive. The process involves downloading the tool, creating the USB, and then installing Windows 11 on the target PC. Users should ensure their PC meets the hardware requirements for Windows 11. After upgrading to Windows 11, users are advised to configure settings to block potentially unwanted applications by enabling options in the Privacy and Security settings. To minimize risks, it is recommended to download apps from the Microsoft Store, keep Windows 11 updated, and use the Microsoft Edge browser with SmartScreen.

Winsage

March 5, 2025

Run Windows-only apps on your Mac with Windows 11 Pro

The MacOS platform is praised for its performance, but there are instances where Windows is necessary for specific applications, gaming, or work software. Windows 11 Pro is currently priced at .97, down from .99. To run Windows on a Mac, users can utilize Boot Camp for Intel-based Macs or a virtual machine like Parallels Desktop. Benefits of Windows 11 Pro include access to Windows-only apps, support for DirectX 12 Ultimate for gaming, an AI assistant for productivity, advanced multitasking features, and enterprise-grade security measures.

Winsage

February 26, 2025

Windows 11 KB5052093 update released with 33 changes and fixes

Microsoft has released the February 2025 preview cumulative update for Windows 11 24H2, identified as KB5052093. This update includes 33 enhancements and fixes, addressing issues with SSH connections, File Explorer, and an audio glitch that causes volume spikes upon waking from sleep. It also resolves a problem with USB audio devices becoming inoperative after short idle periods. Users can install the update via Settings > Windows Update or manually from the Microsoft Update Catalog. The update elevates Windows 11 24H2 systems to build 26100.3323 and introduces a referral card for PC Game Pass subscriptions. Known issues include installation problems with the January 2025 Windows security update due to Citrix components and download issues for Roblox on Arm devices. Windows 11 24H2 is now widely available, and Microsoft is rolling out the Windows 11 2024 Update to eligible Windows 10 22H2 PCs.

Winsage

February 19, 2025

Valve’s monthly survey reveals that almost 45% of Steam users on PC are still using Windows 10 even with the sword of Damocles hanging over them

As of January 2025, 44.41% of PC users are still operating on Windows 10, which is set to lose support in October 2025. Windows 11, released in 2021, has demanding system requirements that deter users with older hardware from upgrading. Many Steam users on Windows 10 may include internet cafes, where maintaining hardware is challenging. The end of support for Windows 10 means users will no longer receive updates or security patches, increasing risks associated with continued use. Resources are available to assist users in transitioning from Windows 10.

Winsage

February 17, 2025

These chips are no longer supported by Windows 11

Microsoft has released an updated support list for Windows 11 tailored for OEM systems with the introduction of the 24H2 update. This update officially supports new Intel processors, including the Lunar Lake and Arrow Lake Core Ultra 200 series, but excludes older Intel 8th, 9th, and 10th-generation chips, including the Core i9-10900K. The exclusion of these processors aligns with Intel's strategy to transition older integrated GPUs to a legacy support model. AMD processors, including those from the Ryzen 8000 series, remain supported, though some models from the Ryzen 9000 and Ryzen AI families are missing. Existing systems with unsupported Intel processors can still install Windows 11 24H2 and receive updates, but the changes primarily affect OEMs launching new systems. Microsoft has also removed the official guide for installing Windows 11 without a TPM 2.0 check.