Windows 11 is here: These are the requirements your computer must meet

Most computer users still remember the melancholic farewell to Windows XP, which remains the most popular operating system ever. However, progress has not stood still since then, and now Microsoft's latest version is already in the starting blocks; Windows 11 has made it to the market. If you don't have a computer yet, you can simply buy a Windows 11 PC today, and it will automatically be state-of-the-art. But what about all the computers already on people's desks? What are the requirements for upgrading to Windows 11?

A Look into the Future - What Can Windows 11 Do?

Originally, Microsoft had not planned a new version of the operating system. In 2014, it was clearly stated that Windows 10 would be the last classic version to be released. And yet, everything has changed, and millions of PC users are now asking whether an upgrade to Windows 11 is sensible and even possible. Is the term "update" correct? Windows 11 is more than just an improved version of its predecessor; it is an operating system with a completely new look and feel. Improved boot options, semi-transparent designs, optimized multitasking – the new variant promises all this.

The lower memory requirement seems particularly interesting here. Compared to its predecessor, Windows 11 is supposed to use only about 60% of the RAM, which saves the hard drive. The new operating system is available from October 2021, and an existing Windows 10 can be updated in the classic way. No new costs, no need to buy a full version – so much for the good news. The prices for a bare operating system purchase have not yet been clearly communicated; newly manufactured computers will come with Windows 11 as standard.

One problem, however, is the significantly increased system requirements compared to Windows 10. Even well-functioning computers may no longer be able to work with the new version of the operating system.

These Requirements are Necessary for the New Windows 11 Upgrade

Many users were never truly convinced by Windows 10, even years after its release. The upgrade to Windows 11 therefore seems to come at just the right time.

But what must the computer be capable of to even consider the transition?

• Graphics Card: Minimum requirement compatibility with DirectX 12 and better, as well as WDDM 2.0 drivers
• Microsoft account as a mandatory requirement
• Memory: 4 GB RAM, significantly better performance with 8 or 16 GB
• BIOS Firmware: UEFI BIOS with enabled secure boot
• Processor: Minimum performance 1 GHz and 2 cores with existing 64-bit CPU.
• Storage Requirements: At least 64 GB of free hard drive space

The specifications are minimum requirements. Stable functionality requires a stable basic structure of the PC. Even if the computer meets all requirements, the overall components may be too weak for a smooth upgrade to Windows 11. In practice, however, this only becomes noticeable if performance lags significantly behind Windows 10.

Optimize Hardware or Buy New?

The disappointment is great when one's own PC is not sufficient to install the free Windows 11 upgrade. While the switch is not yet mandatory, Microsoft will discontinue support for Windows 10 by October 2025 at the latest. By then, the hardware should be optimized as needed.

Theoretically, there are two possible solutions. On the one hand, there is the option of optimizing an existing PC by replacing some components. However, it should be noted that, for example, a CPU change often necessitates a new graphics card, a new motherboard, and consequently new RAM sticks. Therefore, it is sometimes cheaper to buy a completely new computer. The advantage here is that the new operating system is often already installed as standard, so no update is needed.

Approximately 88 million new PCs are bought worldwide every quarter, and these numbers increase when new operating systems or hardware are released.

Windows 11 Compatible or Not? The Quick PC Check

Although the requirements are clearly stated, many consumers wonder if their used computer can handle Windows 11. After all, who knows exactly how many cores their CPU has and how good their graphics card is? A large portion of computer users focuses more on functioning software and is less knowledgeable about the impact of suitable hardware. However, no complex knowledge is required to check the computer's suitability for Windows 11. A click on Microsoft's internal health check program, available on all Windows 10 computers, clearly shows what problems exist. The software indicates whether the current computer is suitable for Windows 11 or if there are difficulties. Unsuitable modules are listed, so it is theoretically possible to specifically improve the situation. However, if the existing system is already outdated, a complete new purchase can bring a breath of fresh air to the desk.

Win 11 Reinstallation via ISO File is an Option

If the compatibility check fails, Windows 11 cannot be installed in the classic way. However, there are now ways to bypass the setup block. In this case, the new operating system can be installed despite missing component compatibility.

Sometimes, however, it is worth taking a look at the BIOS. If the boot conditions are not met here, the computer will show an error, even though the hardware would actually be capable of installing Windows 11. Such errors can be quickly resolved, so it is important to pay attention to the stated reasons during analysis. Top used HP computers can be found here.

Although only certain devices with pre-installed Windows 10 receive a Windows 11 upgrade via Windows Updates, Windows 11 is runnable on most devices. If you wish, you can perform a Windows 11 installation on a device with pre-installed Windows 10. Such an installation is only recommended for experienced users. Refurbished brand hardware is now available with both pre-installed Windows 10 and pre-installed Windows 11.