How to Run a Windows 11 Compatibility Check on Your PC

Windows 11 compatibility comes down to whether your computer meets the system requirements needed to run Microsoft’s latest version of Windows. Unlike some past major versions of Windows, ample storage space isn’t the only requirement. Instead, Windows 11 introduced stricter hardware rules to improve security.

That means things like your processor, TPM chip, and even how your system boots all matter. Checking compatibility helps you avoid problems before updating and confirms that your PC can handle everything Windows 11 offers, such as Snap Layouts and better app performance.

Windows 11 System Requirements

Windows 11’s minimum requirements are stricter than what many PCs used for Windows 10. The biggest change is the need for TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot support. These are necessary because they help keep your system secure. But it’s important to know that your computer might not meet those standards, particularly if it’s several years old

Note: Newer computers come with Windows 11 by default. Check which version of Windows you have if you’re not sure.

These recommended specs aren’t for nothing. A faster processor and more memory, for instance, make a noticeable difference with things like startup times, multitasking, and just general performance when running multiple apps. While Windows 11 can technically install with 4 GB of RAM, it probably won’t actually run well, so it’s best to double that if you want everything to feel smooth.

If you’re unsure whether your computer meets these requirements, Microsoft and other companies have tools that can confirm it, which we’ll cover in detail below.

Supported Processors and Devices

As the table above explains, Windows 11 only runs on specific processors that meet Microsoft’s newer security and performance standards. The company officially supports Intel 8th generation or newer, AMD Ryzen 2000 series or newer, and certain Qualcomm Snapdragon chips.

Here are a few examples of supported processors:

• Intel: Core i3 Processors (14th Generation) and Pentium Gold 6000 Series
• AMD: Ryzen R2312, Ryzen 3 4300GE, and Ryzen 5 4600HS
• Qualcomm: Snapdragon 7c, 8c, 8cx, and Microsoft SQ1/SQ2/SQ3

Most modern laptops and desktops released after 2018 meet these requirements. Your computer is probably compatible if it has one of the newer Intel or AMD chips. You can find complete lists of supported CPUs on Microsoft’s website:

• Intel processors supported for Windows 11
• AMD processors supported for Windows 11
• Qualcomm processors supported for Windows 11

If your processor isn’t on those lists, Windows 11 may still install using workarounds, but you won’t get updates or security patches. The better option is to use compatible hardware or stick with Windows 10 until you’re ready to upgrade your whole device, but we’ve got some other recommendations for unsupported systems below.

How to Check If Your PC is Compatible With Windows 11

Before you install Windows 11, it’s smart to check if your computer meets the system requirements. Microsoft created a simple tool for this called the PC Health Check app. It scans your computer and tells you whether it can run Windows 11, or what’s missing if it can’t, so that you know exactly why Windows 11 won’t install.

Here’s how to check compatibility:

1. Download PC Health Check from Microsoft (the download will start immediately), or search for it on your computer, as it might already be installed.

2. Run the installer, then launch the app from the Start menu once it’s finished.

3. Select Check now at the top. The app will analyze your hardware in a few seconds.

4. You’ll see a message confirming if your PC meets the requirements. If not, the app lists what’s missing, like TPM 2.0 (as shown below) or Secure Boot.

5. There might be multiple components that are blocking your PC from running Windows 11. Selecting See all results will show the full list of compatible and incompatible hardware.

Some issues, such as enabling Secure Boot or TPM in your BIOS settings, can be resolved. Others, like an unsupported processor, usually mean you’ll need new hardware.

Tip: If you prefer alternatives, third-party tools like WhyNotWin11 or WiseCleaner Checkit also scan your system and provide a detailed breakdown of what passes and fails.

What to Do If Your Device Is Not Compatible

If your PC doesn’t meet the Windows 11 requirements, you still have a few options depending on what’s holding it back. Some fixes are simple but, unfortunately, others may not be worth the cost or effort.

• Stay with Windows 10 for now. While Windows 10 stopped receiving security updates in 2025, it’s still technically usable if you have no other option but to stick with that version. Just make sure you’re running updated antivirus software to protect your system from viruses and other malware.
• In some cases, you can add missing components. For example, many motherboards support a plug-in TPM 2.0 module. It’s also easy to upgrade to a solid-state drive or increase RAM.
• Before assuming your PC is incompatible, check your BIOS or UEFI settings. TPM and Secure Boot are often turned off by default, especially on older computers. Switching these on can sometimes make your computer eligible for the upgrade.
• Consider buying a new PC. Upgrading might not make sense for you if the processor is too old or the motherboard lacks Secure Boot or TPM support. Some of the best laptops and desktops (i.e., newer PCs) are designed for Windows 11, so all you have to do is boot them up to run the newer OS.
• Try some workarounds. There are ways to install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware by editing setup files or using third-party tools. These methods work, but Microsoft warns that you might not receive future updates or security patches.

Frequently Asked Questions