As Microsoft approaches the end of support for Windows 10, users with older processors face a pivotal decision. Those operating on hardware older than Intel’s 8th Generation CPUs or AMD’s Ryzen 2000 series will soon find themselves needing to pay an annual fee of for Extended Security Upgrades (ESUs) to maintain security patches. In a recent blog post, Microsoft reiterated its commitment to the stringent requirements for Windows 11, urging users to consider upgrading their systems.
Mandatory Security Standards
At the heart of Windows 11’s requirements lies the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0, a security chip integral to modern computing. This module facilitates hardware-level encryption and security, safeguarding critical processes such as cryptography and key management. Microsoft emphasizes that TPM 2.0 is a “non-negotiable standard for the future of Windows,” reinforcing its importance in the ecosystem.
According to StatCounter, a significant 61.82% of Windows desktop users remain on Windows 10, highlighting the urgency for many to adapt as the end of life (EOL) for the operating system approaches. Windows 11 leverages TPM 2.0 for various features, including BitLocker, Secure Boot, and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), underscoring the necessity of this technology for enhanced security.
Microsoft’s stance is unequivocal: PCs that do not meet the TPM 2.0 requirement will be ineligible for Windows 11. The company suggests that users with older setups consider upgrading their hardware, which may be the most viable option for those relying on dated technology. However, this raises questions about the broader implications of such requirements.
For instance, processors like Haswell, released over a decade ago, may struggle to deliver a smooth Windows 11 experience due to their lack of essential CPU instructions, such as AVX2. As support for Windows 10 wanes, users are left with several choices: invest in a new PC, upgrade existing hardware (if feasible), or opt for the annual fee for continued support. Alternatively, this juncture may also signal an opportunity to explore the world of Linux, with resources available for those interested in dual-booting Linux (Ubuntu) alongside Windows.
