Trusted Platform Module Archives

Winsage

March 24, 2026

My 5-step security checklist for every new Windows PC

Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions include BitLocker, a tool that encrypts the system drive to protect against unauthorized access. BitLocker requires a 48-digit recovery key for access if the device is compromised. A Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chip is necessary for BitLocker to function, which is standard in most computers made in the last eight to nine years. To enable BitLocker, users must open File Explorer, right-click the system drive, select "Turn on BitLocker," back up the recovery key, choose the encryption portion, and run a system check to start the encryption process.

Winsage

March 4, 2026

Did Windows 10 automatically update itself on this user’s PC with curiously perfect timing — or was this mid-shower surprise just an honest mistake?

Microsoft has been encouraging users to upgrade to Windows 11 since its launch in October 2021, employing tactics such as full-screen pop-up ads. Some users prefer Windows 10 due to its hardware requirements and design issues. A user named 'djseifer' reported that their Windows 10 PC automatically upgraded to Windows 11 while they were away, despite declining previous upgrade prompts. Upon returning, they expressed dissatisfaction with the new interface, particularly the Start menu and centralized taskbar. It is generally understood that Microsoft should not forcibly upgrade a user's operating system without consent, although the user may have inadvertently consented through prior agreements. Users can disable automatic updates to maintain their Windows 10 experience, but this may expose them to security vulnerabilities. Microsoft requires TPM 2.0 for Windows 11, complicating upgrades for unsupported hardware. Windows 10 will still be usable after Microsoft ends support on October 14, 2025, but users will face increased risks from cyber threats. Extended Security Updates (ESU) will provide limited security updates for a time.

Winsage

February 23, 2026

Don’t Buy a Refurbished or Used Windows 10 Computer

The author explored used and refurbished laptops for a testing lab, focusing on budget-friendly options, particularly those running Windows 10. Microsoft has ceased support for Windows 10, leaving users vulnerable to security risks compared to those using Windows 11. Many Windows 10 devices may not support an upgrade to Windows 11, making them less desirable despite their lower prices. Users are advised to consider the importance of security and check compatibility with Windows 11 before purchasing. Devices manufactured in the last five years are more likely to support the upgrade. Indicators that a computer may not support Windows 11 include being manufactured before 2019, having an older processor, running a version of Windows earlier than 10, or lacking support for Secure Boot, TPM, or UEFI. If a computer is kept offline, the operating system's importance is reduced, but this scenario is rare. The author recommends against purchasing Windows 10 devices, as refurbished Windows 11 models are only slightly more expensive and offer better security.

AppWizard

February 1, 2026

‘Anyone mad is a cheater:’ Players are divided as Rust beefs up anti-cheat with more effective—and invasive—upgrades

The presence of a "cheat community" in Rust has led to harassment of developers, prompting Facepunch to implement security measures similar to those in other games, including Secure Boot and Trusted Platform Module (TPM) requirements. Starting in March, server owners will have the option to allow connections only from players with Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 enabled, with plans to potentially make this mandatory. This decision is influenced by the effectiveness of invasive anti-cheat strategies, although it has faced mixed reactions from the community regarding accessibility and system upgrades. Facepunch has also decided against bringing Rust to Linux or Proton due to these evolving anti-cheat protocols.

Winsage

January 30, 2026

Microsoft said my PC can’t run Windows 11, but I upgraded in 5 minutes anyway

Microsoft ceased support for Windows 10 in October 2022, prompting users to consider their next steps, especially those with PCs that do not meet the requirements for Windows 11. A desktop built in 2020 with an Intel Core i9-9900 CPU lacks a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0, which is necessary for Windows 11 eligibility. Microsoft encouraged users to invest in new hardware rather than upgrade existing systems. However, there are workarounds available for users with compatible machines. One method involves using the third-party program Rufus to install Windows 11, which requires an empty USB thumb drive with at least 8GB of storage. The installation process includes downloading Rufus, obtaining the Windows 11 ISO, and following specific steps to bypass TPM and other requirements.

Winsage

December 24, 2025

Microsoft rolls out hardware-accelerated BitLocker in Windows 11

Microsoft is enhancing Windows 11 with hardware-accelerated BitLocker to improve security and performance, particularly for resource-intensive tasks like gaming and video editing. BitLocker, which encrypts sensitive data, traditionally relied on the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) for managing encryption keys. With advancements in NVMe storage technology, Microsoft is now using system-on-a-chip (SoC) components with hardware security modules (HSMs) and trusted execution environments (TEEs) to offload cryptographic operations, leading to improved performance and reduced CPU usage. Devices supporting NVMe drives and crypto offload-capable SoCs will automatically use hardware-accelerated BitLocker with the XTS-AES-256 algorithm. This update applies to various encryption scenarios, and hardware-accelerated BitLocker has shown a reduction in CPU cycles by approximately 70% compared to software-based versions. The new implementation also enhances security by using hardware-protected keys, minimizing the risk of cyberattacks targeting CPU and memory. The updated BitLocker feature is available with Windows 11 24H2, following the September updates, and will also be included in Windows 11 25H2. Initial support is rolling out with Intel vPro systems featuring Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors, with plans to expand to other SoC vendors. Users can check their BitLocker mode by executing the command manage-bde -status. If unsupported configurations are detected, BitLocker will revert to software-based mode.

Winsage

December 23, 2025

Has 2025 seen a successful refresh to Windows 11?

Windows 11 has a market share of 53.7%, while Windows 10 has 42.7%. Approximately 700 million devices are running Windows 11. Microsoft has urged users to upgrade from Windows 10, which officially ended support in October 2025, leaving users without updates or security patches. Users on Windows 10 may need to purchase an extended security package for protection until October 2026. Hardware compatibility issues, particularly with the Trusted Platform Module 2.0 requirement, may prevent some users from upgrading. The 25H2 update for Windows 11 introduced various enhancements but also created new issues. Windows 12's release is uncertain, with expectations for AI advancements, but details are speculative.

AppWizard

November 27, 2025

SteamOS is so close to greatness — but can Valve finally crack anti‑cheat and remove the biggest barrier holding PC gamers back?

SteamOS is a Linux-based operating system developed by Valve, designed for the Steam Deck and other compatible devices, offering features like cloud saves and cross-device connectivity. However, it faces challenges with compatibility for games that use kernel-level anti-cheat systems and require Trusted Platform Module 2.0 support. Notably, games like Rust and Apex Legends have dropped support for SteamOS and Linux due to concerns over cheating and low user bases. Valve is working on anti-cheat solutions for SteamOS, but the lack of support from developers remains a significant barrier. Valve's hardware roadmap includes the Steam Machine and Steam Deck, but the Steam Machine will not receive financial subsidies like the Steam Deck. The success of SteamOS may depend on its ability to attract a substantial user base and persuade developers to collaborate on integrating anti-cheat systems.

Winsage

November 12, 2025

This Trick WIll Let ‘Incompatible’ Windows 10 PCs Upgrade to Windows 11

Microsoft officially ceased support for Windows 10 as of October, although users can still receive security updates for an additional year. Many computers do not meet the minimum system requirements for Windows 11, but some may still be compatible with adjustments to settings. Users can check compatibility using Microsoft's PC Health Check app and may need to enable Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 in the BIOS. UEFI should be enabled instead of legacy BIOS mode for compatibility. If compatibility issues persist, adding a TPM module may enhance compatibility for certain motherboards. Upgrading to Windows 11 is advisable for computers six years old or newer due to security vulnerabilities in unsupported systems.