Is my PC compatible with Windows 11 ?

It is not an overnight emergency : your machine keeps working. But the flaws found after the end of support will never be fixed, and they accumulate. So the question deserves dealing with rather than waiting for an incident.

Checking compatibility

The simplest way : Settings > Windows Update. If the machine is eligible, the upgrade is offered there directly. If not, Windows generally explains why it is refused.

Microsoft also offers a PC Health Check tool that sets out point by point what is blocking it.

The three requirements that cause trouble

• The processor. This is the most frequent block and the most final : Microsoft accepts only a list of models, broadly those released from 2017-2018 onward. An older processor, however capable, is excluded.
• TPM 2.0. A security chip present on most machines since 2016. It is often there but disabled in the BIOS settings - turning it on is then enough to unblock the situation. This is a very common case.
• Secure Boot. Also switchable in the BIOS, with the same consequence.

In other words, a machine declared incompatible often is not really : two settings to change are enough in a good number of cases.

If the machine really is incompatible

Three options, in order of cost :

• Stay on Windows 10 and reduce your exposure: a temporary compromise, acceptable for a machine used offline or for very limited purposes, not for one used for online banking.
• Move to Linux. On an older machine used for the internet, email and office work, a mainstream distribution works perfectly well, stays supported, and gives modest hardware its liveliness back. Getting used to it takes a little guidance, but everyday use comes back very quickly.
• Replace the machine. See when to replace your computer and the options in refurbished hardware.

Preparing the migration

The upgrade keeps documents, programs and settings. That said, the rule is the same as for any major operation : back your documents up to an external medium before starting anything. Allow one to two hours, with the machine on mains power, and do not interrupt it.

One practical tip : moving to Windows 11 is also a good moment to fit an SSD if the machine still runs on a mechanical drive. It is done in one go, with a clean system. See SSD or hard drive.

Letting us handle the migration

Compatibility check, enabling TPM in the BIOS, backup, migration and getting you going again : we handle the lot in Lyon and across the Rhone, keeping your data and your working habits.

Frequently asked questions

Would you rather we took care of it ? See our computer repair at home service, in Lyon and across the Rhone.