More than 800 million Microsoft users are preparing for significant changes as the company approaches the end of critical security updates this October. The spotlight is on Windows 11, alongside the ongoing challenge of persuading Windows 10 users to transition to the newer operating system. Despite extensive efforts, Microsoft has struggled to sway a substantial portion of its user base.
User Segmentation
The user base appears to be divided into two distinct groups: those who are unwilling to update and those who are unable to do so. For the first group, the allure of a complimentary upgrade to a more secure and feature-rich operating system has not yet proven compelling enough. Conversely, the second group comprises users with older PCs that do not meet the stringent security requirements of Windows 11. For these individuals, Microsoft’s recommendation is clear: invest in a new PC, ideally one equipped with the latest AI enhancements.
While all 800 million users can opt for extended support—potentially lasting longer for those associated with enterprise or educational accounts—the company has started to provide more structured pricing and purchasing guidance. It is anticipated that most users with compatible PCs will choose to upgrade to Windows 11 rather than incur additional costs. However, the remaining 400 million users face a more complex decision, with many likely to resist paying extra fees, putting them at risk of losing support.
Changes to Upgrade Path
Recent developments have raised concerns for users in the latter group. As reported by Neowin, Microsoft has quietly removed the official workaround that allowed unsupported PCs to bypass the CPU and TPM requirements for upgrading to Windows 11. Initially, when Windows 11, version 21H2 was released, Microsoft had provided a method for users on unsupported devices to upgrade, but this option has since been eliminated.
The support document that previously detailed this workaround has been amended following the release of Windows 11 24H2, signaling a shift in Microsoft’s stance. Neowin notes that the company is likely discouraging upgrades on unsupported devices, which explains the removal of the Registry workaround information.
Registry Modification Warning
The previous guidance included a cautionary note from Microsoft:
“Microsoft recommends against installing Windows 11 on a device that does not meet the Windows 11 minimum system requirements. If you choose to install Windows 11 on a device that does not meet these requirements, and you acknowledge and understand the risks, you can create the following registry key values and bypass the check for TPM 2.0 (at least TPM 1.2 is required) and the CPU family and model.”
Registry Key: HKEYLOCALMACHINESYSTEMSetupMoSetup
Name: AllowUpgradesWithUnsupportedTPMOrCPU
Type: REG_DWORD
Value: 1
Note: Serious problems might occur if you modify the registry incorrectly by using Registry Editor or by using another method. These problems might require that you reinstall the operating system. Microsoft cannot guarantee that these problems can be solved. Modify the registry at your own risk.”
Although the workaround required a degree of technical knowledge, not all users felt comfortable making such modifications, even with Microsoft’s endorsement. This tweak allowed users to bypass the TPM hardware check and proceed with the upgrade, though it likely resulted in a suboptimal experience for those running Windows 11 on unsupported hardware.
Final Thoughts
Microsoft’s recent actions serve as a further warning against upgrading to Windows 11 on incompatible devices. Previous advisories have highlighted potential risks, including the loss of hardware and software support, as well as diminished functionality for office applications. While there was a noticeable increase in Windows 11 upgrades in January, the journey toward full adoption remains lengthy. Requests for comment from Microsoft regarding these changes are currently pending.
