How to Check Windows 11 Compatibility

Upgrading to Windows 11 requires meeting specific hardware criteria set by Microsoft, including requirements for the processor, RAM, storage, Secure Boot, and TPM 2.0. This guide provides a straightforward, step-by-step walkthrough on how to use Microsoft’s official PC Health Check app to determine whether your current computer can run Windows 11.

Step 1: Download and Install the PC Health Check App

1. Visit the official Microsoft Windows 11 specifications page.
2. Scroll to the bottom of the page to locate the Check for compatibility section.
3. Click the link to download the PC Health Check app.
4. Open the downloaded installer file (WindowsPCHealthCheckSetup.msi), accept the terms, and complete the installation.

Step 2: Run the Compatibility Check

1. Launch the PC Health Check app from your Start menu or desktop shortcut.
2. At the top of the home screen, you will see a banner labeled Introducing Windows 11.
3. Click the blue Check now button inside this banner.

Step 3: Understand Your Results

After clicking the button, a pop-up window will appear displaying your compatibility status:

• This PC meets Windows 11 requirements: Your computer is fully capable of installing and running Windows 11. You can upgrade via Windows Update when the update becomes available for your device.
• This PC doesn’t currently meet Windows 11 system requirements: Your computer does not satisfy one or more hardware conditions.

Step 4: Review Detailed Hardware Details

If your PC does not meet the requirements, click the See all results button in the pop-up window. The app will provide a detailed checklist showing exactly which components passed and which failed, such as:

• TPM 2.0: Needs to be enabled in your motherboard’s BIOS/UEFI settings.
• Secure Boot: Must be supported and enabled.
• Processor: Must be on Microsoft’s approved processor list (generally 8th Gen Intel / AMD Ryzen 2000 series or newer).
• RAM and Storage: At least 4 GB of memory and 64 GB of storage space.

If the only issues identified are TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot, you can often resolve them simply by enabling these features within your computer’s BIOS/UEFI firmware settings.