Windows 11 requirements

Microsoft requires the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 as a mandatory hardware requirement for Windows 11, emphasizing its importance for the operating system's security. Steven Hosking, Senior Product Manager at Microsoft, stated that TPM 2.0 is essential for a secure Windows 11. TPM provides encryption and decryption functionalities and can be a discrete chip or integrated within the processor. Despite the advantages of TPM, the strict hardware requirements have led to a stagnation in Windows 11's market share. While Windows 10 is nearing the end of its free support, Microsoft remains firm on the TPM requirement, labeling it a "non-negotiable standard." However, TPM 2.0 is not a minimum requirement for Windows Server 2025, although it will be necessary for certain features like BitLocker Drive Encryption. Many existing Windows 10 devices that could run Windows 11 are sidelined due to these requirements, despite being high-performance machines. There are ways to bypass the Windows 11 requirements, but these methods may be closed off without notice. Hosking acknowledged that implementing TPM 2.0 may require changes for organizations, but did not explain why consumers without this hardware cannot opt out, especially since Windows Server 2025 can be installed without it.