Wondering if your computer can run Windows 11? The upgrade is free for eligible PCs — but Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements than Windows 10, and TPM 2.0 trips up a lot of people. Here’s how to check your PC and exactly what to do if it doesn’t qualify.
Windows 11 Minimum Requirements
| Component | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Processor | 1 GHz+, 64-bit, 2+ cores (on Microsoft’s supported list) |
| RAM | 4 GB or more |
| Storage | 64 GB or more |
| Firmware | UEFI with Secure Boot |
| TPM | TPM 2.0 |
| Graphics | DirectX 12 compatible |
How to Check Your PC
- PC Health Check app — Microsoft’s free tool tells you instantly whether your PC qualifies, and why.
- Windows Update — go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update; eligible PCs see an upgrade offer.
The Most Common Blocker: TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot
Many PCs that can run Windows 11 are blocked simply because TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot is switched off in the BIOS/UEFI. The fix is often quick:
- Restart and enter your BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing Del, F2 or F10 at startup).
- Find TPM (called PTT on Intel or fTPM on AMD) and enable it.
- Enable Secure Boot.
- Save and exit, then re-check with PC Health Check.
Enabling these can turn an “incompatible” PC into an eligible one.
If Your PC Is Compatible
Great — you can upgrade for free if your Windows 10 is activated, or with an inexpensive genuine key. Follow our step-by-step guide on how to upgrade to Windows 11.
If Your PC Isn’t Compatible
- Extended Security Updates (ESU) — a short-term bridge to keep getting Windows 10 security patches.
- A newer PC — new computers ship with Windows 11 already installed and supported.
See our overview of what to do now that Windows 10 support has ended.
Get a Genuine Windows 11 Key
When you’re ready, grab a genuine Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro key — delivered instantly on your order confirmation page. Not sure which? See Windows 11 Home vs Pro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Windows 11 need TPM 2.0?
TPM 2.0 is a security chip that helps protect your data and credentials. Most PCs from the last several years have it — it just needs to be enabled.
How do I know if I have TPM 2.0?
Press Windows + R, type tpm.msc and press Enter. The window shows your TPM status and version.
Can I install Windows 11 on an unsupported PC?
It’s not recommended — unsupported PCs may not receive updates and can be unstable. Enabling TPM/Secure Boot or upgrading hardware is the safer route.
Will upgrading delete my files?
No — an in-place upgrade keeps your files, apps and settings.