Upgrading to Windows 11 may be complicated
(June 24, 2022) — New computers bundled with Microsoft’s latest operating system, Windows 11, are now working great. However, there are still some issues to address if you are considering an upgrade for an older computer.
The best way to tell if your computer will upgrade to Windows 11 is to run the Microsoft compatibility check tool.
A number of issues may disrupt your efforts to upgrade to Windows 11. The two biggest issues are with the Central Processing Unit (CPU) and the Trusted Platform Module (TPM). The CPU is the brains of your computer and the TPM is a security guard.
Microsoft’s latest compatibility tool allows upgrades if you have a 7th generation CPU or higher. Previous tool versions restricted upgrades to 8th generation CPUs or higher.
Are you ready?
By the way, if you are running an operating system (OS) older than Windows 10, fuhgeddaboudit. Your computer is not ready for Windows 11; it is time to invest in a new one. Windows 10 support ends Oct. 14, 2025.
According to Microsoft, “Windows 11 is officially supported on PCs with Intel’s 8th-gen core CPU, Ryzen 2000 series and above. Based on the telemetry data from Windows Insiders, Microsoft has now added support for select Intel’s 7th-gen chips.”
According to the updated list, Windows 11 will now work on the following 7th-gen chips:
- Core X-series chips.
- Xeon W-series processors.
- Core i7-7820HQ (on devices like the Surface Studio 2).
The extended support isn’t perfect, but it does help if you have one of the listed CPUs.
The next most important item is the TPM. If you have an 8th generation Intel CPU (listed as i3, i5, i7 etc.) or higher, the TPM is built into your CPU chip. If you do not have a TPM module, purchase one that is compatible with your motherboard. Seek the help of a professional if you are unsure as to the status of your computer’s compatibility.
To check your computer with the tool, search for “Windows 11 compatibility check tool re-released by Microsoft.” Download the software tool and run it. If it fails, call your local computer tech for support. If it succeeds, you are ready to enter a completely new world of security, features and fun.
Old software
Some issues may persist with older software, so be prepared to upgrade your software as well. If you are running software that is no longer supported by the original manufacturer, I suggest you do not upgrade unless you can find a suitable substitute brand of software.
To sum up, I am pleased to say it is time to upgrade.
Windows 11 is finally ready for prime time. Upgrading can be a pain, but it is likely to offer great benefits for those brave enough to venture into a new world of computing.
You need to learn the new applications at some point, and you may as well start now. Go do the right thing, buy Windows 11 on a new computer or upgrade your existing one if it qualifies.
Professionals are standing by, ready to help you.
Email questions or comments to willclaney@gmail.com.
Will Claney
William Claney is an independent tech writer and former owner of Computers USA in the Clayton Station. Email questions or comments to willclaney@gmail.com.