- Windows 11 requirements are split between standard and AI (Copilot+)
- Copilot+ requires specific hardware: 40-TOPS NPU, 16GB DDR5 RAM, and 256GB SSD
- The TPM 2.0 chip is still required for standard installation.
- There are methods to bypass requirements and options like Linux for non-compatible computers.
Since the arrival of Windows 11, the controversy over hardware requirements has only grown. Millions of users suddenly found themselves with computers that, despite functioning correctly, couldn't be updated to Microsoft's new operating system because they required components like the TPM 2.0 chip or more modern processors. Today, the situation has evolved even further due to the integration of artificial intelligence, which is redefining which computers can take advantage of all its features.
In recent years, Microsoft has modified and tightened the requirements Both for the base version of Windows 11 and for its new AI-powered features, known as Copilot+. These new features, far from making life easier for users, have raised the barrier to entry and are forcing many to reconsider whether it's worth investing in a new computer or looking for alternatives.
Current Windows 11 requirements: Standard and AI
One of the Fundamental changes are the separation of requirements into two groupsOn the one hand, we have those that allow you to install and run Windows 11 on any modern computer, and on the other, those required for local AI-based features, especially Copilot+.
- Standard Requirements (updated):
- Dual-core processor (Intel Core 2th Gen, AMD Ryzen 8 or higher)
- 4 GB of RAM
- 64 GB of disk space
- Graphics card compatible with DirectX 12 and WDDM 2.0
- Secure Boot enabled
- TPM 2.0 mandatory
- Requirements for AI and Copilot+:
- Processor with a minimum NPU of 40 TOPS (e.g. Snapdragon X, Intel Core Ultra 200V or AMD Ryzen AI 300)
- 16 GB RAM, DDR5 or LPDDR5
- SSD or UFS storage unit, minimum 256 GB
The increase in requirements to access Copilot+ is considerable, leaving out the vast majority of current computers, even those with powerful graphics cards, since the requirements focus on specific NPUs and do not allow the use of conventional GPUs for AI.
Why all the fuss about TPM 2.0?
One of the The main obstacle to upgrading to Windows 11 remains the Trusted Platform Module (TPM 2.0)Although this chip improves the security of features like BitLocker and Windows Hello, its mandatory implementation has rendered perfectly functional devices obsolete simply because they lack TPM 2.0 or only have the previous version 1.2. The majority of complaints stem from the fact that Microsoft has made this requirement inexcusable, preventing those without it from upgrading, with no option to activate it as an optional measure.
For many users, the added security doesn't make up for the cost of upgrading their computer. In fact, a large portion of the Windows installed base is still running Windows 10, often solely due to the lack of this chip or because their computer doesn't meet some other requirement imposed by Microsoft.
The commitment to local AI further tightens the requirements
Microsoft has begun rolling out new AI capabilities directly integrated into the system, under the brand name Copilot+Tools like Recall, dynamic background generation, or the ability to describe images with AI require specialized and extensive computing power. This is where processors with cutting-edge NPUs come into play, along with the need to increase RAM and disk capacity.
This means that Computers without that 40-TOPS NPU will be left out of Windows 11's most innovative features.Even PCs with powerful graphics cards won't be able to access local AI, as Windows only allows CPUs and NPUs certified for these tasks.
Alternative methods to install Windows 11 on unsupported computers
Faced with this scenario, There are ways to circumvent official restrictions and be able to install Windows 11 even on older hardware or without meeting all the mandatory requirements: Discover in this article how to perform a quick recovery in Windows 11..
- Using tools like Rufus: It allows you to create an installation USB, eliminating requirements such as TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, the need for 4 GB of RAM, or the requirement of a Microsoft online account.
- Editing the Windows Registry: Modifying certain registry keys makes it possible to bypass some of the checks during installation.
- Advanced Commands in PowerShell: There are specific commands that allow you to launch the Windows 11 installer by skipping hardware checks.
It is worth remembering that Microsoft warns about the possible consequences: lack of support, loss of security updates, and potential stability issues on non-certified computers. Additionally, installing Windows 11 around restrictions may void any manufacturer's warranty.
Is Linux a viable option for computers that don't meet the requirements?
For users whose devices do not meet Microsoft's new requirements and who do not want to invest in a completely new computer, Linux has established itself as the most practical and sustainable optionTheir distributions cover both basic and advanced needs, require fewer resources, and extend the lifespan of equipment, helping to reduce unnecessary electronic waste.
Many believe that the strategy of tightening requirements in Windows 11 has sparked significant pushback, especially with the arrival of local AI features and Copilot+. The reality today is that a significant portion of the IT market will be left out of the most advanced features unless their hardware is upgraded, while alternatives such as Linux or unofficial methods for circumventing restrictions will continue to gain popularity among those who prefer not to upgrade their equipment or don't see the investment as justified.
