![Canon DSLR Camera [EOS 90D] with 18-135 is USM Lens | Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, DIGIC 8…](https://techcratic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/71wFDlXt6L._AC_SL1500_-360x180.jpg)
![helloleiboo Car Windshield Sun Shade for Tesla Model 3/ Model Y/Model S [2024 Upgrade]…](https://techcratic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/71KKP0fGq2L._AC_SL1500_-360x180.jpg)
2024-08-09 03:22:00
www.zdnet.com
On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will stop delivering security updates to your Windows 10 PC unless you’re willing to pay an exorbitant price to join the Extended Security Updates program.
If you try to upgrade to Windows 11 on a PC over a few years old, you’ll be told, in no uncertain terms, that your old PC doesn’t qualify, because its CPU isn’t on the official list of compatible processors. Microsoft has made it abundantly clear that it will not revise those requirements. You will also hit roadblocks if your PC doesn’t have a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.
Also: The Windows 10 clock is ticking: 5 ways to save your old PC in 2025 (most are free)
However, while that might be the official policy, as with everything Windows-related, it pays to read the fine print.
Those pesky restrictions prevent you from automatically upgrading to Windows 11 using Windows Update or the Windows 11 Installation Assistant. Yet there are two fully supported workarounds, as I document in ZDNET’s Windows 11 FAQ.
Also: How to install Windows 11 the way you want (and sneak by Microsoft’s restrictions)
If you’re willing to perform a clean install of Windows 11, you can boot from installation media and run Windows Setup. That option skips the CPU compatibility check completely. After the installation completes, you’ll need to reinstall all your apps, restore your data files, and tweak settings to personalize your system preferences.
Want to avoid all that hassle? Follow these four steps.
How to upgrade your old ‘incompatible’ PC to Windows 11
You need to make one small change to the Windows registry, as documented in this Microsoft support document. This change tells the Windows 11 Setup program to skip the check for compatible CPUs and to allow installation on a PC with an older TPM (version 1.2). The usual warnings apply when working with the registry, of course, and I recommend you make a complete backup before proceeding.
Open Registry Editor *Regedit.exe) and navigate to the following key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\Setup\MoSetup
Select that key and then right-click in any empty space in the pane on the right. Choose the option to create a new DWORD value, AllowUpgradesWithUnsupportedTPMOrCPU, and set its value to 1. The result should look like this:
Use this registry tweak to override the Windows 11 CPU and TPM compatibility checks.
Screenshot by Ed Bott/ZDNET
Click OK to save your change.
After the download completes, open File Explorer and double-click the ISO file. Doing so mounts the file as a virtual DVD drive in its own folder.
In File Explorer, find the Setup.exe file and double-click it to begin the upgrade. You’ll see a stern warning about compatibility issues, but after you click OK on that dialog box your upgrade should proceed without any serious issues. You’ll have three options: you can keep your apps, settings, and files (Full Upgrade); keep your data files but start fresh with apps and settings (Keep Data Only); or start completely fresh (Clean Install).
Also: The best Windows laptops you can buy: Expert tested and reviewed
If you want more control over the upgrade process and aren’t afraid to mess with creating custom installation media, you can use the free, open-source utility Rufus. My ZDNET colleague Lance Whitney has the full details in ‘How to install Windows 11 the way you want (and sneak by Microsoft’s restrictions)‘.
Source Link
Support Techcratic
If you find value in our blend of original insights (Techcratic articles and Techs Got To Eat), up-to-date daily curated articles, and the extensive technical work required to keep everything running smoothly, consider supporting Techcratic with Bitcoin. Your support helps me, as a solo operator, continue delivering high-quality content while managing all the technical aspects, from server maintenance to future updates and improvements. I am committed to continually enhancing the site and staying at the forefront of trends to provide the best possible experience. Your generosity and commitment are deeply appreciated. Thank you!
Bitcoin Address:
bc1qlszw7elx2qahjwvaryh0tkgg8y68enw30gpvge
Please verify this address before sending any funds to ensure your donation is directed correctly.
Bitcoin QR Code
Your contribution is vital in supporting my efforts to deliver valuable content and manage the technical aspects of the site. To donate, simply scan the QR code below. Your generosity allows me to keep providing insightful articles and maintaining the server infrastructure that supports them.
Privacy and Security Disclaimer
- No Personal Information Collected: We do not collect any personal information or transaction details when you make a donation via Bitcoin. The Bitcoin address provided is used solely for receiving donations.
- Data Privacy: We do not store or process any personal data related to your Bitcoin transactions. All transactions are processed directly through the Bitcoin network, ensuring your privacy.
- Security Measures: We utilize industry-standard security practices to protect our Bitcoin address and ensure that your donations are received securely. However, we encourage you to exercise caution and verify the address before sending funds.
- Contact Us: If you have any concerns or questions about our donation process, please contact us via the Techcratic Contact form. We are here to assist you.
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, Techcratic may earn from qualifying purchases.
