Users are finding ways to install Windows 11 on PCs that Microsoft deems unsupported due to TPM 2.0 requirements, highlighting a workaround that leverages a third-party tool called Rufus to bypass hardware checks.
Backdrop and Motivation
As Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, many users with older PCs were left ineligible for the Windows 11 upgrade due to a lack of TPM 2.0. However, computers built around 2020, including those with hardware like Asus motherboards and Intel Core i9 CPUs, remain fully operational aside from the TPM issue. Despite Microsoft's push for new PC purchases, some users are successfully upgrading through alternative methods.
Steps to Install Windows 11
To bypass the TPM requirement, follow these steps:
- Download the Windows 11 ISO for x64 devices.
- Use Rufus to create a bootable USB drive without TPM checks.
- Select Remove requirement for 4GB+ RAM, Secure Boot, and TPM 2.0 in Rufus.
- Proceed with the Windows 11 installation by launching the setup from the USB drive.
This workaround is particularly effective for PCs from 2020, assuming other hardware specifications are met and in good condition.
Final Considerations
While these methods offer an unofficial path to Windows 11 for unsupported systems, users should be aware of potential risks and consult guides for troubleshooting during the process. Microsoft’s original requirements aim to enhance security through TPM, but the need to upgrade older yet capable PCs remains a reality for many.
