unsupported hardware Archives

Winsage

March 28, 2025

How to easily create an unattended answer file for Windows 11

On Windows 11, an answer file named autounattend.xml can be created to streamline the installation process by bypassing setup steps. To create this file, users need to install the DISMTools application, which provides a wizard for generating the unattended file. The installation of DISMTools involves using Command Prompt to run the command: winget install CodingWondersSoftware.DISMTools.Preview. To create the unattended file, users launch DISMTools, navigate to the "Unattended answer file creator," and follow the wizard to configure settings such as system language, processor architecture, disk settings, product key, account settings, and network settings. The final step is saving the file as autounattend.xml. To integrate the answer file into Windows 11 installation media, users download the Media Creation Tool, select the USB flash drive option, and copy the autounattend.xml file to the USB drive. This prepares the USB for an unattended installation of Windows 11. The XML file may also appear as "unattend.xml" in other contexts.

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 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 12, 2025

Microsoft warns some Windows 11 users they should downgrade to Windows 10 ‘immediately’

Microsoft recommends that users operating Windows 11 on unsupported hardware revert to Windows 10. The company has removed previous advice for installing Windows 11 on ineligible devices from its support documentation and emphasizes the importance of adhering to system requirements.

Winsage

February 9, 2025

“Roll back to Windows 10 immediately”: Microsoft issues stark warning to wily Windows 11 users

Microsoft has advised Windows 11 users on unsupported hardware to revert to Windows 10, especially as the end-of-support date for Windows 10 is set for October 14, 2025. The recommendation is aimed at users who bypassed Windows 11's hardware requirements, particularly the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 chip. Microsoft has begun blocking third-party tools that allow installation on ineligible devices, labeling such tools as Potentially Unwanted Applications (PUAs) or hacking tools. Devices not meeting Windows 11's requirements will not receive support or updates, including critical security patches. Users can continue using Windows 10 past its end-of-support date but will lack essential updates unless they pay for the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program.

Winsage

February 5, 2025

Microsoft’s Free Offer Deadline—Millions Of Windows Users Must Now Decide

Microsoft is intensifying its initiative to transition Windows 10 users to Windows 11, with around 400 million users still on Windows 10. There has been a rise in Windows 11 upgrades, influenced by speculation about a deadline for free upgrades, although Microsoft has not formally announced a cutoff. The end-of-life for Windows 10 is set for October, which adds pressure for users to upgrade. Many users may be unable to upgrade due to hardware limitations, and Microsoft offers a 12-month extended support plan for those unable to transition. Workarounds for hardware restrictions are declining, as Microsoft has removed guidance on modifying the Windows Registry and blocked the Flyby11 tool, which was designed to assist users with unsupported hardware. As the October deadline approaches, users are advised to upgrade before then to avoid support fees and potential interruptions in free upgrades. Users without compatible hardware may need to consider purchasing a new Windows 11 PC by 2025 to ensure continued support.

Winsage

February 4, 2025

Microsoft is cracking down on people upgrading to Windows 11 on unsupported hardware

Microsoft has withdrawn its guidance on bypassing the TPM 2.0 requirement for Windows 11 installations, removing instructions for users to install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware from its "Ways to install Windows 11" page. Microsoft Defender is now flagging Flyby11, a tool that bypasses the TPM 2.0 requirement, as potential malware, categorizing it as PUA:Win32/Patcher. The developer of Flyby11 has indicated that this classification may be a false positive and is seeking clarification from Microsoft. Users still on Windows 10, which will lose support in over eight months, have limited options: continue with unsupported Windows 10, upgrade to Windows 11 if their hardware allows, or purchase new hardware that meets the requirements.

Winsage

February 3, 2025

Microsoft hides “official” workaround for installing Windows 11 on older PCs

Microsoft has updated its online support articles for Windows 11 installation, removing "official" workarounds for installing the OS on older machines that do not meet hardware requirements. This change aims to encourage users to purchase newer PCs. Previously, Microsoft allowed sanctioned methods for installation on unsupported hardware, but as Windows 11 nears its fourth anniversary, the company is focusing on promoting new machines. The updated guidance no longer mentions bypassing hardware checks, although archived methods are still accessible online. This update follows the release of Windows 11 version 24H2, which faced issues for users with both new and old hardware. Microsoft emphasizes the importance of Trusted Platform Module (TPM) and newer CPUs for security in future updates. Historically, users have bypassed hardware checks using third-party tools, especially in enterprise settings. Microsoft is now advocating for new PC purchases to experience the latest features of Windows 11, as Windows 10 will end official support on October 14, 2025. Analysts predict increased demand for upgrades as the Windows 10 support deadline approaches, despite Windows 10 still powering most active Windows PCs.

Winsage

February 3, 2025

Microsoft Warns 400 Million Users—Do Not Update Windows

More than 800 million Microsoft users are facing significant changes as the company ends critical security updates this October. The user base is divided into two groups: those unwilling to update and those unable due to older PCs that do not meet Windows 11's security requirements. Microsoft recommends that users with incompatible PCs invest in new ones. While all users can opt for extended support, many may resist paying extra fees, risking loss of support. Microsoft has removed the official workaround that allowed unsupported PCs to bypass CPU and TPM requirements for upgrading to Windows 11. This change follows the release of Windows 11 24H2, indicating a discouragement of upgrades on unsupported devices. Previously, users could modify the registry to bypass these checks, but this required technical knowledge and was not endorsed for all users. Microsoft warns against installing Windows 11 on devices that do not meet minimum requirements, highlighting potential risks such as loss of support and diminished functionality.

Winsage

December 25, 2024

Microsoft posts official uninstall and recovery guide for botched Windows 11/10 update

Microsoft released a new support article detailing the functionality of the Windows 11 feature 'Fix problems using Windows Update' and scenarios where it may not be effective. A shortcut link to the recovery settings menu has been introduced as part of the guidance for installing Windows 11 on unsupported hardware. Microsoft updated another support article regarding the uninstallation of Windows Updates, now including instructions for using the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) for this purpose, applicable to both Windows 10 and 11. Users can uninstall updates via WinRE by accessing Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Uninstall Updates. A disclaimer about the end of support for Windows 10 is also present on the page. Additionally, a cautionary note regarding BitLocker recovery key requirements is included. Microsoft has emphasized the importance of system requirements such as TPM and Secure Boot in relation to Windows 11 24H2. Third-party backup and cloning applications are making adjustments to align with these updates.