Microsoft Removes TPM 2.0 Requirement for Windows 11 on Older PCs

Marco Lancaster

December 12, 2024

Microsoft surprisingly unveiled Windows 11 in 2021 after years of promising Windows 10 as the definitive Windows version. While Windows 11 continued to refine the changes brought with Windows 11, it also added its own set of particularities to make it feel like a different version and not just a Windows 10 update. Some changes were for the good, while others were quite controversial. For the first time, Microsoft imposed a requirement that would leave old hardware out of the party. The company announced Secure Boot and Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 as a requirement for a Windows 11 install. It caused a huge backlash since a huge amount of users running older hardware would be left on Windows 10.

Windows 11 Reaches Those Who Weren’t Eligible For It

Due to this requirement, some users couldn’t proceed with the update via official ways. While there were alternative methods to flash Windows 11, most of them left the users with no access to updates. With Windows 10 support’s end nearing the shores, some users were concerned with their inability to install the OS. This also became a concern for Microsoft, after all, this would keep a great amount of its market share stuck on Windows 10. As expected, the company had no other choice than to drop the TPM 2.0 as a requirement.

Recently, the tech giant made allegations that TPM 2.0 was a “non-negotiable” requirement for Windows 11. Shortly after this declaration, the company had a change of heart. While some users expected Microsoft to drop it due to the lack of alternatives, it caught the other part as a big surprise. The new strategy is a move to boost Windows 11 adoption rates ahead of Windows 10 end of support.

Users with older hardware can now upgrade to Windows 11 without replacing their entire system. The change will impact the security features of Windows 11, as TPM 2.0 plays a big role in System protection. However, the benefit is still here as more and more users will finally be able to install Windows 10.

The TPM 2.0 Requirement and Its Role

When Microsoft introduced the new major OS update, it highlighted the need for a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 chip. This security chip provides hardware-level protection, enabling features like secure boot, disk encryption, and user authentication. According to Microsoft, TPM 2.0 is critical for boosting security and safeguarding user data on the new operating system.

Join GizChina on Telegram

However, this requirement poses challenges for older PCs that don’t have a compatible TPM chip. As a result, many users find their devices ineligible for an official Windows 11 upgrade, causing frustration and limiting adoption on some systems.

Now Microsoft made some changes to its official support page. The company notes that installing Windows 11 on a device that does not meet the minimum requirements isn’t recommended. If the OS is installed on ineligible hardware, you should be comfortable assuming the risk of running into compatibility issues […] Devices that don’t meet these system requirements aren’t guaranteed to receive updates, including but not limited to security updates.”

There is also an intriguing disclaimer when a user without TPM 2.0 tries to install Windows 11:

This PC doesn’t meet the minimum system requirements for running Windows 11 – these requirements help ensure a more reliable and higher quality experience. Installing Windows 11 on this PC is not recommended and may result in compatibility issues. If you proceed with installing Windows 11, your PC will no longer be supported and won’t be entitled to receive updates. Damages to your PC due to lack of compatibility aren’t covered under the manufacturer warranty. By selecting Accept, you are acknowledging that you read and understand this statement.”

Honestly, most of this sounds like Microsoft is upset about having to change its course. In the end, Windows 11 is perfectly feasible on hardware that does not meet the requirements. After all, we need to remember that even relatively new motherboards were left out of the party for not complying with this.

The latest Windows 11 24H2 is already out for all users. This update is massive because it finally employs some of the AI implementations with Microsoft’s Copilot. Even if full support is not guaranteed, more users will be able to experience the OS without having to rely on unofficial methods.

Disclaimer: We may be compensated by some of the companies whose products we talk about, but our articles and reviews are always our honest opinions. For more details, you can check out our editorial guidelines and learn about how we use affiliate links.

Source/VIA :

Tom's Hardware

Read Also: Huawei Mate 70 is 100% Made of Chinese Components, Claims CEO