As the clock ticks down, Windows 10 finds itself on the brink of obsolescence, with just eight months remaining until its end of life. By October, Microsoft will cease to provide free updates and security patches for this widely used operating system, leaving those who continue to rely on it vulnerable to a range of issues, including errors, bugs, and potential cyber threats.
Options for Transitioning Users
For users still navigating the waters of Windows 10, several pathways are available. One option is to invest in a new laptop that comes pre-equipped with Windows 11, ensuring a seamless transition to the latest operating system. Alternatively, users can opt for Extended Security Updates (ESUs), which offer a safety net for older machines, albeit at a yearly cost and limited to a three-year duration.
Another route is to upgrade existing devices from Windows 10 to Windows 11. However, caution is advised here, as some users have reportedly managed to install Windows 11 on incompatible hardware. Windows 11 has specific system requirements, including the necessity for a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0, which are crucial for its optimal performance and security.
In response to these unofficial upgrades, Microsoft has issued a warning, urging users to revert to Windows 10 if their devices do not meet the necessary specifications. A recent post on the company’s support page stated, “If you installed Windows 11 on a device not meeting Windows 11 system requirements, Microsoft recommends you roll back to Windows 10 immediately.”
The Risks of Unsupported Upgrades
So, what are the potential pitfalls for users who attempt to install Windows 11 on unsupported machines? Microsoft has clarified that such installations will result in a watermark appearing on the Windows 11 desktop, along with a notification in the Settings menu indicating that the system requirements have not been met. Furthermore, devices lacking the minimum specifications may encounter various operational issues post-upgrade.
To assist users in determining their device’s compatibility with Windows 11, Microsoft has made available a PC Health Check tool. The tech giant encourages all users to utilize this application to assess whether their current hardware can support the new operating system. “If your device is already running Windows 10, you can use the PC Health Check app to assess compatibility,” the company noted.
With Windows 10 support set to conclude on October 14, 2025, the urgency to make an informed decision is palpable.
Here’s what you need to run Windows 11 safely:
- Processor: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC).
- RAM: 4 gigabytes (GB).
- Storage: 64 GB or larger storage device.
- System firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable.
- TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.
- Graphics card: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver.
- Display: High definition (720p) display that is greater than 9” diagonally, 8 bits per colour channel.
