YOUR pricey Windows 10 PC might not be able to upgrade to Microsoft’s new Windows 11. The huge update starts rolling out for free later this year – but you might not be able to get it. You’ll be able to bag the next-gen PC software from October 5 – but only if your computer […]
YOUR pricey Windows 10 PC might not be able to upgrade to Microsoft’s new Windows 11.
The huge update starts rolling out for free later this year – but you might not be able to get it.
You’ll be able to bag the next-gen PC software from October 5 – but only if your computer is good enough.
According to Microsoft, the roll-out will be staggered.
That means the free upgrade will only be available to select devices initially.
But Microsoft said that all eligible devices will be able to upgrade by the middle of 2022.
It brings sweeping improvements, design changes and new features.
Importantly, it replaces Windows 10 – which will eventually lose support, including vital security updates.
Now Microsoft has warned that many PCs simply won’t be able to run Windows 11.
We’ve got the full spec details on what you’ll need below, as well as the easiest ways to check.
But one of the big concerns is that Windows 11 requires 8th-gen Intel Coffee Lake processors or newer.
Or if you have an AMD processor, your PC or laptop will need a Zen 2 CPU or better.
That will shut out millions of older PCs or laptops that simply won’t be able to run the new Windows 11 software.
Probably the easiest way to check if your computer can run Windows 11 is to download Microsoft’s own app.
It’ll check for you – grab it here:
If you already know what sort of hardware your computer has, you can check against the official list manually.
Microsoft says that at a minimum, you’ll need:
Processor: 1GHz or faster with two or more cores (64bit)
RAM: 4GB or more
Storage: 64GB or more
Firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable
Graphics Card: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver
Display: HD (720p) bigger than 9 inches diagonally, 8bits per colour channel
You’ll also need an internet connection and a Microsoft account to set up a Windows 10 Home Edition for the first time.
Microsoft has also warned that any laptops built and sold from 2023 onwards will need to have a webcam to run Windows 11.
For some computers, you’ll be able to install Windows 11 regardless of whether it meets requirements, according to a recent update to the beta – spotted by The Verge.
But doing so makes you sign agree to special terms and conditions.
It means you have to agree that your PC will no longer be supported, won’t receive updates, and your computer warranty may be voided.
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