Windows 11 compatibility Archives

Winsage

January 31, 2026

Final day to get Windows 11 Pro for just $10

A promotion has reduced the price of Windows 11 Pro to a significant discount, making it an attractive option for users currently on Windows 10 or the Home edition of Windows 11. The offer represents a 94% discount from the standard retail price and is a rare opportunity for a current-generation Windows Pro license. Windows 11 Pro includes features such as Snap Layouts, multiple desktops, BitLocker device encryption, Windows Information Protection, Hyper-V virtualization, and Remote Desktop capabilities. It requires a compatible 64-bit CPU, TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, at least 4GB of RAM, and adequate storage. Users are advised to purchase from reputable sellers to avoid issues with activation or legitimacy of the license.

Winsage

December 4, 2025

Windows 10 Support Ending: Complete Windows 11 Upgrade Guide

Upgrading to Windows 11 involves careful planning and preparation. Start by updating Windows 10 to ensure recent updates are applied. Acquire a USB flash drive (at least 8GB) for the installation process, and document current software licenses as some applications may require reactivation. Check for driver updates to ensure hardware compatibility with Windows 11. There are three main upgrade methods: 1. Windows Update Automatic Upgrade: Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, check for updates, and if compatible, download and install Windows 11. This method retains files and applications and typically takes 20 to 40 minutes. 2. Media Creation Tool Installation: Download the Media Creation Tool, run it, and follow prompts to create installation media on a USB drive. This method is useful for upgrading multiple devices. 3. Clean Installation Process: Insert the USB drive with setup files, restart the device, boot from the USB, and follow the instructions for a custom installation. This method erases all existing data, so comprehensive backups are necessary. Effective planning is crucial, and it is advisable to start the upgrade process well before the deadline of October 14, 2025. This allows time for testing applications, training staff, and addressing hardware requirements. Ensure all devices are compatible to avoid security issues, and consider a robust data protection strategy, such as a 3-2-1 backup approach. Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is free for users with genuine Windows 10 licenses. If a device does not meet the requirements, it cannot be upgraded. Users can roll back to Windows 10 within 10 days of the upgrade, retaining previous files. The upgrade process typically takes around 20 minutes, depending on various factors. Planning the upgrade early helps mitigate operational disruptions, allowing for staggered upgrades and reduced risks of security vulnerabilities as Windows 10 support ends.

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.

Winsage

October 26, 2025

Microsoft’s decision to axe Windows 10 is driving Apple PC sales growth — users buy Macs instead of AI PCs despite Microsoft’s push for Copilot+ PCs

Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, concluding nearly ten years of use. Lenovo saw a 17.4% increase in unit shipments in Q3 2025, while Apple’s Mac shipments grew by 14.9%. Asus and HP reported increases of 14% and 10%, respectively, while Dell's shipments declined by 0.9%, and other PC makers experienced a 3% decrease. The overall PC market grew by 8.1% year-over-year, driven by hardware upgrades for Windows 11 compatibility and inventory stocking due to import tariffs. Despite the introduction of AI PCs, consumer preference remains for traditional models. Intel is raising prices for its Raptor Lake chips in response to demand. Counterpoint predicts an increase in AI PC shipments by 2025, with enterprises investing in AI-capable PCs for future readiness.

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

October 9, 2025

Global PC Shipments Surge 9.4% in Q3 2025 on Windows 10 End

Global personal computer shipments increased by 9.4% year-over-year in the third quarter of 2025, reaching nearly 76 million units, according to IDC. This growth is attributed to the impending end of support for Microsoft’s Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, prompting upgrades to Windows 11. Corporate refresh cycles, especially in the education and enterprise sectors, are driving this demand. Regions like Asia and Japan experienced double-digit growth, while North America reported weaker results due to trade tensions and proposed tariffs. Many devices are incompatible with Windows 11, necessitating replacements. Major manufacturers like Lenovo, HP, and Dell benefited from this trend, while smaller vendors faced challenges. The transition to Windows 11 is also influencing software development and peripheral markets, with a focus on AI-integrated features. Industry insiders anticipate continued momentum into 2026, although geopolitical factors may affect growth. Critics highlight concerns about electronic waste and the potential for functional Windows 10 machines to be discarded.

Tech Optimizer

September 30, 2025

Windows 10 Updates End in October: What It Means for Users

Microsoft will cease updates for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. As a result, Windows 10 devices will become more vulnerable to security threats due to the lack of updates and security patches. Microsoft is encouraging users to transition to Windows 11, but many older computers may not be compatible with the new operating system. Approximately 650 million people worldwide are still using Windows 10, with an estimated 400 million devices potentially unable to upgrade to Windows 11. Microsoft offers "Extended Security Updates" for a fee for those unable to upgrade. Experts warn that the absence of updates will increase the risk of cyberattacks, and many software vendors may discontinue support for applications reliant on updated system features. Users are advised to check their PCs for Windows 11 compatibility and consider options such as extended updates, hardware upgrades, or switching to Linux.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

Did Microsoft Change Windows 11 Requirements? – Here’s the Truth

Microsoft has not changed the official requirements for Windows 11 since its launch. Users need a compatible 64-bit processor (1GHz or faster with at least two cores), a minimum of 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage. Essential features include UEFI firmware that supports Secure Boot and TPM version 2.0, DirectX 12 compatible graphics with a WDDM 2.0 driver, and displays of at least 9 inches with a resolution of 720p. Microsoft allows experienced users to manually install Windows 11 on unsupported devices at their own risk, but this is not advisable due to potential issues. The strict requirements are intended to enhance security and performance. Users can check compatibility with the PC Health Check Tool. Microsoft will support Windows 10 until October 14, 2025, after which there will be no official support. For those whose systems do not meet the specifications, upgrading hardware or purchasing a new PC may be necessary.

Winsage

March 14, 2025

240 million Windows 10 users are vulnerable to six different hacker exploits

Windows 10 users are urged to download the latest update due to critical fixes for six actively exploited vulnerabilities affecting up to 240 million individuals. The U.S. Cyber Defense Agency advises updating systems before April 1st or turning off computers as a precaution. The vulnerabilities include: - CVE-2025-24993: Buffer overflow exploit. - CVE-2025-24991: Access to data from a malicious virtual hard disk. - CVE-2025-24984: Exploit requiring physical access to log sensitive information. - CVE-2025-26633: Bypass flaw in Microsoft Management Console. - CVE-2025-24985: Privilege escalation flaw after mounting a VHD. - CVE-2025-24983: System-level exploit for gaining top privileges on the Windows Kernel Subsystem. Over 600 organizations have been affected by these vulnerabilities. Microsoft will cease security updates for Windows 10 on October 14th, 2025, and users are encouraged to transition to Windows 11. Currently, there is a 60/40 split between Windows 10 and 11 users, with only 2% switching monthly. Approximately 240 million users have PCs incompatible with Windows 11, potentially leading to 1.1 billion pounds of computing equipment being discarded. The slow migration poses risks to user data security.

Winsage

February 24, 2025

Microsoft trims more CPUs from Windows 11 compatibility list

Microsoft has released a list of CPUs compatible with Windows 11 24H2, specifying that OEMs must use Intel's 11th-generation or later processors for new PCs. This update is directed at OEMs, not end users, and emphasizes that older pre-11th-generation Intel processors are not supported. Intel's 11th-generation chips were introduced in 2020 and have since been phased out, with many older processors now in a "legacy software support model." Users with eighth, ninth, and tenth-generation Intel processors may still use them if they meet other requirements like TPM 2.0. Microsoft has not clarified if this announcement indicates future reductions in CPU support, although it has historically adjusted hardware requirements.