Amazon’s Prime Day event, scheduled from July 8th to July 11th, presents a golden opportunity for consumers to snag significant discounts on a variety of devices. However, for those using older Windows 10 PCs, a more pressing concern looms: the impending end of support for Windows 10 in October. This situation leaves users with three options: continue using their unsupported systems, invest in a year’s worth of support, or opt for a new, upgraded model.
Determining whether your current PC can be upgraded to Windows 11 is crucial. If your device is not eligible for the upgrade, it may be time to consider a replacement, especially during this sales event.
PC Health Check to the Rescue
Microsoft offers several methods to assess whether your PC meets the hardware requirements for Windows 11, with the most straightforward being the free PC Health Check app. This tool features a prominent Check now button that quickly reveals if your system qualifies for the upgrade. If it doesn’t, the app will provide details on what specific requirements are unmet, such as the absence of Secure Boot, insufficient RAM, or inadequate storage capacity.
One notable requirement for Windows 11 is the presence of a Trusted Platform Module (TPM), which serves as a cryptographic security feature. Interestingly, while many users have expressed concerns about TPMs, the primary reason some devices fail to qualify for the upgrade is often the age of their processors rather than the lack of a TPM itself. For instance, the Microsoft Surface Pro 3, an 11-year-old tablet, exemplifies this issue. Despite having a TPM, its outdated processor prevents it from meeting Windows 11’s requirements.
If you find that your PC does not qualify for the upgrade, the urgency to consider a new device grows, particularly as the deadline for Windows 10 support approaches. Conversely, if your system is eligible for Windows 11, resources are available to guide you through the upgrade process from Windows 10.
Ultimately, the decision to invest in a new PC during Prime Day rests with you. With enticing deals on the horizon, it may be the perfect moment to make that leap into a more secure and efficient computing experience.