Microsoft has ended support for Windows 10 as of 2025-10-14, prompting users to consider upgrading to Windows 11. However, many older PCs fail to meet the new system's strict hardware requirements, particularly lacking TPM 2.0. This issue can be circumvented using a workaround with the third-party tool, Rufus, enabling users to install Windows 11 on otherwise unsupported systems.
Steps to Install Windows 11
Users with PCs built around 2020 can upgrade to Windows 11 by following these steps. First, download Rufus and the Windows 11 multi-edition ISO. Insert a blank USB drive with at least 8 GB of storage and launch Rufus. Select the USB drive and choose the 'Disk or ISO image' option under Boot Selection. Next, load the Windows 11 ISO file.
- Click 'Start' and customize settings in the Windows User Experience window by checking 'Remove requirement for 4GB+ RAM, Secure Boot and TPM 2.0.'
- Create the USB installer by clicking 'OK' and 'Start.'
- Run the Windows 11 installer from the USB drive by double-clicking 'Setup'.
- In the 'Install Windows 11' window, modify setup options to prevent immediate updates and proceed with installation.
The computer will restart several times during the installation. If executed successfully, users will have a fresh installation of Windows 11 without requiring TPM 2.0.
Hardware Compatibility and Requirements
This workaround is particularly effective for PCs manufactured in 2020 that meet other system requirements like adequate storage capacity. Adequate hardware condition and compliance with base specifications are essential to ensure a smooth upgrade process without TPM, Secure Boot, or RAM interventions.
Microsoft's notifications to purchase new hardware to comply with Windows 11 requirements can be sidestepped with this method, offering users a cost-effective method to keep their older systems operational with the latest OS.
