What to Do When [This Processor Is Unsupported for Windows 11]?

If you've encountered the message "this processor is unsupported for Windows 11," you're not alone. Many users are puzzled by the stringent requirements for upgrading to Microsoft's latest operating system. This article will demystify what a processor is, the specific requirements for Windows 11, and highlight popular processors that support the new OS.

What is a Processor?

A processor, or central processing unit (CPU), is the brain of your computer. It's responsible for executing instructions from your software applications and operating system. The CPU performs essential tasks such as arithmetic operations, logic operations, and input/output operations. Modern processors are multi-core, meaning they have multiple processing units on a single chip, allowing for better performance and multitasking.

Processor Requirements for Windows 11

Windows 11 has introduced more stringent hardware requirements compared to its predecessors. The primary reason for these requirements is to enhance security, improve performance, and ensure a better user experience. Here are the key processor requirements for Windows 11:

1. 64-bit Processor: Windows 11 requires a 64-bit processor, also known as x64 architecture. This excludes older 32-bit processors.
2. Clock Speed: The processor must have a clock speed of at least 1 GHz with at least two cores.
3. Compatible Processor Models: Windows 11 supports certain processor models from AMD, Intel, and Qualcomm. The specific models are listed on Microsoft's official website.
4. TPM 2.0: The processor must support Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0, a security feature that provides hardware-based security functions.
5. Secure Boot: The processor must support Secure Boot, a security standard that ensures the system boots using only software trusted by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).

Popular Processors That Support Windows 11

Understanding which processors are compatible with Windows 11 can help you make informed decisions when upgrading or purchasing a new computer. Here are some popular processors that meet the Windows 11 requirements:

Intel Processors

1. Intel Core i9-11900K: Known for its high performance, this 11th generation processor with 8 cores and 16 threads is ideal for gaming and high-end computing tasks.
2. Intel Core i7-11700K: Another 11th generation processor, offering 8 cores and 16 threads, it's suitable for both gaming and productivity tasks.
3. Intel Core i5-11600K: A more budget-friendly option with 6 cores and 12 threads, it provides excellent performance for everyday use and moderate gaming.

AMD Processors

1. AMD Ryzen 9 5950X: A powerhouse with 16 cores and 32 threads, this processor is perfect for heavy multitasking, gaming, and content creation.
2. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X: With 8 cores and 16 threads, it offers a great balance between performance and cost, ideal for gaming and productivity.
3. AMD Ryzen 5 5600X: This 6-core, 12-thread processor is a favorite among budget-conscious gamers and users who need solid performance without breaking the bank.

Qualcomm Processors

1. Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx Gen 2: Designed for always-on, always-connected PCs, this processor offers excellent battery life and performance for lightweight tasks and mobile computing.

How to Install Windows 11 in an Unsupported Processor

If you still want to install Windows 11 on your PC, some steps can be referred to.

You will need to make some modifications to the Windows registry in order to make your PC eligible for the installation of Windows 11, even if it has an unsupported processor. That is not as intricate as it may appear, but it is not without risk. Corrupting your Windows installation can occur as a consequence of making unspecified adjustments or errors in the registry.

Therefore, it is crucial to adhere to the instructions precisely. If you are uncertain, seek assistance from a knowledgeable individual.

Step 1. Press the "Windows + R" keys simultaneously to open the Run box.

Step 2. Input "regedit" or "regedit.exe" and click "OK" to run the Registry Editor window.

Step 3. Navigate to "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\Setup".

Step 4. Right-click the blank, and select "New" > "Key" to add a new registry key on the left side of the editor. Make sure you name it "LabConfig".

Step 5. Under the "LabConfig" folder, right-click the blank again to create two "DWORD (32-bit) Value” options to create new DWORD value.

Step 6. Name it as “BypassTPMCheck”. Then double-click it and change the "Value data" from "0" to "1".

Now, you have made Windows 11 bypass TPM, you can begin to upgrade your system to Windows 11.

If you're installing Windows 11 from USB on an incompatible computer, you'll be reminded that "This PC can't run Windows 11" during the installation course. In such a case, the next steps can let you upgrade to Windows 11 without TPM.

Step 1. Once the "Windows Setup" window shows, press the "Shift + F10" keys to open the Command Prompt.

Step 2. Type the command "regedit" and press "Enter" to open the Registry Editor.

Step 3. Then, follow the above Step 3 to 5 to bypass the TPM limitation. After that, you can continue to install Windows 11.

Create Windows 11 Bootable USB to run Windows 11 on any PC

It is now possible to generate a Windows 11 bootable USB on your own, thanks to the proliferation of third-party applications. Some individuals may be aware that Microsoft's Windows To Go feature can generate a bootable USB; however, they are unaware that Windows To Go does not support Windows 11. A USB flash drive or external hard drive that has been certified by Microsoft is also necessary for certain supported systems.

AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional is a superior alternative tool that we suggest. This instrument is intended to facilitate the resolution of a variety of computer-related issues. One noteworthy feature is the "Windows To Go Creator," which allows users to establish a Windows environment on a USB drive and circumvent the necessity for system upgrades. In other words, this USB allows you to access a new system at your convenience, while simultaneously maintaining your device's original operating system. Additionally, it facilitates the development of a Windows OS bootable USB on Mac devices.

Step 1. Plug the USB into the computer and wait for it to be detected by your device. If it failed, you can refer to the solutions.

Step 2. Launch the installed AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional. Select a disk, and click “Tools" > “Windows To Go Creator” at the top menu.

Step 3. Click “Create Windows To Go for personal computer” and choose “Next”.

Step 4. Select “Create Windows To Go with system disc/ISO”. Usually, the Windows 11 ISO file will be detected automatically, if not, you can click the folder icon to select the target file manually. Then click “Next”.

Step 5. Choose the USB drive as the target and select “Proceed” to continue.

Step 6. You will be noticed that all data on the USB will be wiped. Choose “Yes”. Then you can unplug the USB and try to boot it on another computer. If you do not know how to boot, you can continue following the steps below.

Step 7. Insert the Windows 11 To Go USB drive into your computer. Boot the device and press a specific key to enter BIOS/UEFI.

Step 8. Choose USB Device and press “Enter” key to boot from the Windows 11 bootable USB.

To sum up

If you've encountered the message "this processor is unsupported for Windows 11,"  you can try Windows 11 portable USB to run Windows 11 without risks. AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional can fix many disk and drive issues for you.