What does Windows 11 require, and why can some PCs not upgrade?
Windows 11's minimum requirements, per Microsoft's own support documentation, include a compatible 64-bit processor, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability, and TPM (Trusted Platform Module) version 2.0. TPM 2.0 is a small security chip (or its firmware equivalent) that underpins features like Windows Hello and BitLocker device encryption. Many PCs built before roughly 2016 to 2018 either lack a TPM 2.0 chip entirely, have TPM disabled in firmware by default, or still boot using older legacy BIOS rather than UEFI, which is why some otherwise capable-feeling laptops are blocked from upgrading.
How do I check if my PC is eligible?
- Download the free PC Health Check app from Microsoft's official Windows 11 pages.
- Install and open it on your Windows 10 PC.
- Select the check-eligibility option; it reviews your processor, RAM, storage, TPM version and Secure Boot status against the official requirements.
- Read the result: it either confirms your PC qualifies, or names the specific requirement it fails so you know what to check.
If TPM shows as available but disabled, it can sometimes be turned on from your PC's UEFI firmware settings; the exact menu location varies by manufacturer, so check your PC maker's own support pages for that specific step rather than a generic guide.
How do I upgrade an eligible Windows 10 PC?
- Open Settings > Windows Update.
- Select Check for updates. If your PC is eligible and Windows 11 is being offered to it, you'll see an option to download and install it there.
- Follow the prompts to download, install, and restart when ready.
If Windows Update hasn't offered the upgrade yet but PC Health Check confirms your PC qualifies, Microsoft's support documentation notes you can instead download and run the Windows 11 Installation Assistant directly from Microsoft's site, then select Accept and install to start the upgrade without waiting for it to appear in Windows Update.
How do I do a clean install of Windows 11?
- On a working PC, go to Microsoft's official Windows 11 download page and, under Create Windows 11 Installation Media, select Download Now to get the media creation tool.
- Run the downloaded tool and follow its prompts to create installation media on a USB flash drive (8GB or larger, which will be erased).
- Insert the USB drive into the PC you want to install Windows 11 on, and boot from it (this may require entering the boot menu or changing boot order in firmware settings).
- Follow the on-screen setup steps, selecting a clean install and the drive to install to when prompted.
A clean install erases the target drive, so back up anything you want to keep before starting, and only use this route if you specifically want a fresh Windows 11 setup rather than an in-place upgrade.
People also ask
Why can't my PC upgrade to Windows 11?
Usually because it lacks TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot-capable UEFI firmware, which Windows 11 requires. PC Health Check identifies exactly which requirement your PC fails.
How do I check if my PC is eligible for Windows 11?
Download and run Microsoft's free PC Health Check app, which checks your hardware against the official requirements and tells you whether your PC qualifies.
What is the difference between upgrading and a clean install?
Upgrading via Windows Update or the Installation Assistant keeps your files, apps and settings. A clean install using the media creation tool erases the drive and installs Windows 11 fresh.