As we approach October 2025, the landscape for Windows 10 PCs is set to change significantly. With the cessation of monthly security updates for this operating system, users are faced with a pivotal decision: upgrade to Windows 11 or consider alternative options. The simplicity of upgrading to Windows 11 is appealing, but it’s essential to first assess whether your current hardware is compatible.
Microsoft’s recent policies have sparked discussions about age discrimination in technology. While many older PCs continue to run Windows 10 effectively, not all can transition to the latest version. With over a billion Windows PCs globally, the ability to upgrade hinges largely on the age and specifications of your machine, particularly its CPU.
To determine your PC’s eligibility for an upgrade, start by identifying its age. This can be accomplished by checking the CPU model through the System Information utility, Msinfo32.exe. Once you have this information, you can categorize your PC into one of four distinct groups.
Modern PCs: 2019 or later
For those fortunate enough to own a PC designed and built in 2019 or later, the upgrade path to Windows 11 is generally clear. These machines typically feature CPUs that meet Microsoft’s requirements, including the essential Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0. If your PC falls into this category, upgrading via Windows Update or the Windows 11 Installation Assistant should be straightforward, potentially extending its useful life for another decade.
If your CPU does not appear on the supported list, further investigation is warranted. Resources such as Intel’s and AMD’s processor specifications pages can provide insights into your CPU’s capabilities and age.
Designed for Windows 10: 2016-2019
PCs from this era, while perhaps not cutting-edge, still possess considerable capability. These machines were designed to meet the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program specifications and include TPM 2.0. However, their CPUs may not be on the list of officially supported processors for Windows 11. Owners of these systems can follow Microsoft’s documented procedures to upgrade by making a simple registry edit, ensuring that even the oldest among them can remain functional for at least five more years.
Designed for Windows 7/8: 2010-2015
As we move to PCs designed between 2010 and 2015, we find ourselves in the realm of senior citizens. While some of these machines may still perform admirably, others may be nearing the end of their lifecycle. To gauge their potential for an upgrade, two critical questions must be addressed:
- Is there a TPM of any kind? Many PCs from this period include a Trusted Platform Module, and even a TPM 1.2 can suffice for Microsoft’s upgrade workaround.
- Who made the CPU? Most mainstream Intel CPUs from this era can meet the hardware requirements for Windows 11, while AMD processors may present challenges due to their support limitations.
Even without a TPM, utilities like Rufus can help navigate compatibility issues, although these machines may be running on borrowed time.
From the Dark Ages of the Windows PC: 2009 and earlier
Finally, we arrive at the oldest PCs, those from 2009 and earlier. During this time, Windows Vista was the target of many marketing campaigns, and Windows XP served as a reliable workhorse. Unfortunately, if you are considering upgrading one of these relics, the prospects are dim. Most machines from this era lack the necessary TPMs and do not support the required CPU extensions for Windows 11.
While there may be a rare high-end model that meets the criteria, such cases are exceptions rather than the rule. For those unwilling to part with their vintage machines, exploring alternative operating systems, such as Linux, may be the most viable option.
