Microsoft Confirms Windows 11 Will Not Support Older Hardware

In a decisive move, Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 11 will not lower its stringent hardware requirements, particularly the need for Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0. As the end of support for Windows 10 approaches in October 2025, the company is urging users to upgrade their hardware rather than rely on older systems.

The Importance of TPM 2.0

Initially introduced as a surprise requirement for Windows 11, TPM 2.0 is a hardware-based security feature that encrypts data and verifies digital signatures. Microsoft emphasizes that this technology is essential for maintaining system integrity and protecting sensitive information—especially as more artificial intelligence capabilities are integrated into Windows.

According to Steven Hosking, a senior product manager at Microsoft, “TPM 2.0 is vital for enhancing identity and data protection on Windows devices.” The module supports new security features introduced with Windows 11, including Credential Guard and BitLocker disk encryption. It also plays a crucial role in Secure Boot, ensuring that the operating system starts securely without unauthorized modifications.

No Going Back

Microsoft has made it clear that the TPM 2.0 requirement is not open to negotiation. Devices running Windows 11 must also support virtualization-based security, which limits compatibility to CPUs released from 2018 onward. This means that many existing PCs will be left behind.

While various workarounds allowed users to install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware, Microsoft has tightened the upgrade process in recent updates, particularly with the recent 24H2 update. The company is now actively promoting new PCs to users of Windows 10, highlighting the impending end of support as a motivator for upgrading.

Looking Ahead

With a clear directive from Microsoft, users still on Windows 10 will need to consider investing in new hardware to continue receiving updates and support. The company’s push for modern security standards reflects a broader trend in the tech industry towards enhanced security measures, paving the way for a more secure computing environment.

As Windows 10 reaches its end of life, users must weigh their options carefully. For those relying on older systems, the transition to Windows 11 will require more than just a software upgrade—it will necessitate a hardware investment that meets the new standards set by Microsoft.