processor compatibility Archives

Winsage

October 17, 2025

Microsoft’s strict rules mean older CPUs can’t run Windows 11

The end of support for Windows 10 means PCs without Windows 11 compatibility will not receive updates, raising security and compatibility concerns. Microsoft requires TPM 2.0 support, Secure Boot compatibility, and specific security features for Windows 11. Intel processors compatible with Windows 11 start from the 8th generation Core series and newer, while AMD compatibility begins with Ryzen 2000 series processors and later. Older Intel Core processors (6th and 7th generation) and first-generation Ryzen processors do not meet the criteria for support.

Winsage

July 25, 2025

Flyby11 Lets You Install Windows 11 on Older Windows 10 PCs

Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10, prompting users to consider upgrading to Windows 11, though many older PCs may not meet compatibility requirements. Flyby11 is a utility that helps users bypass these restrictions by making the system appear as if it is running on Windows Server, thus avoiding checks for processor compatibility, TPM, and Secure Boot. Flyby11 is free but does not guarantee a smooth upgrade experience, and users are advised to back up their data before proceeding. To use Flyby11, users must download and unzip the latest version, check their system's compatibility, and initiate the upgrade process by dragging and dropping a Windows 11 ISO file into the interface. Potential issues include hardware and applications not functioning correctly, persistent notifications about incompatibility, and lack of support from Microsoft for incompatible devices. Users may also miss out on updates, although they can manually retrieve some from the Microsoft Update Catalog. Alternatives to upgrading include purchasing a new PC, continuing to receive Windows 10 updates for another year, or switching to a different operating system like Linux, which is compatible with older hardware.

Winsage

March 5, 2025

Microsoft updates Windows 11 CPU support for OEM systems to include 8th to 10th Gen Intel CPUs

In mid-February 2025, Microsoft updated its support documentation regarding Intel processors' compatibility with Windows 11 24H2, adding several models from the 8th, 9th, and 10th generations that were previously excluded. These processors, introduced about eight years ago, can still perform adequately if their motherboards meet the TPM 2.0 requirement. Microsoft confirmed that these Intel CPU models meet the minimum system requirements for Windows 11 and indicated that future processor generations meeting similar principles will also be considered supported. Although the three Intel generations have not been reinstated on the official list, systems using these processors will not be rendered obsolete or stop receiving updates. Manufacturers are advised against using these older processors in new systems running Windows 11. An official list of supported CPUs for non-OEM or custom PC builders is not available, but builders should refer to Microsoft’s Windows 11 System Requirements, which require a CPU operating at 1 GHz or faster with two or more cores. It is possible to install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware by adjusting certain registry values, but this may result in missing system and security updates. Users can also continue using Windows 10 for ongoing security updates or consider transitioning to a Linux operating system.

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.