Do you need a new PC?  Well, maybe.  If your PC was built before 2018-2020 then most likely yes.

Can your existing PC be upgraded to Windows 11?  Also maybe.  Read on for further explanation, as the answers are not quite "one size fits all".

Microsoft launched Windows 11 as the latest version of their PC operating system software on October 5, 2021.  It builds upon the technology in Windows 10 and earlier versions, but introduces security & performance improvements, new features, and arguably a better user experience, including fluidly operating on all manner of devices and displays.

Microsoft have also announced that they will end support for the previous version (Windows 10), on October 14, 2025.

What are the benefits of Windows 11 over previous versions?

We've outlined the key benefits for you here.

What is the difference between the system requirements for Windows 10 and Windows 11?

If we consider only the basic minimum hardware requirements for Windows 11 (dual-core 64-bit CPU, 4GB RAM, 64GB disk space), at first it may appear that many older PCs might work just fine with it.

However, the big catch is that Windows 11 crucially also includes new hardware requirements to enhance system security - specifically, the TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module 2.0) and the Secure Boot functions are now mandatory, rather than optional as they were in Windows 10.

TPM 2.0 module

TPM 2.0

Although the TPM 2.0 standard was created back in 2014, it was not widely implemented on PC motherboards for a few years after that.  So this means that most PCs built before approx. 2018-2020 are NOT compatible with Windows 11.

Whether your own existing PC is compatible with Windows 11 really depends on the details of its internal hardware.  Your PC's motherboard needs to at least contain a TPM 2.0 socket (sometimes called a "header"), into which you will require a TPM 2.0 module to be installed and then activated via your motherboard's BIOS settings.

There is more than one possible type of TPM 2.0 socket and module combo in existence, so the details of your PC's particular motherboard are the key factor in determining what is compatible and therefore what can be done.

If your motherboard contains a TPM 2.0 socket with module already installed, then it's simply a matter of ensuring that the TPM 2.0 function is activated in the motherboard's BIOS settings.

If your motherboard does not have a TPM 2.0 socket at all, then your PC is simply not compatible with Windows 11 and you should strongly consider replacing it - ideally before Microsoft ends support for Windows 10 in October 2025.

Secure Boot

Your motherboard either does or does not include the Secure Boot function.  If it does, this is one of two motherboard features (along with TPM 2.0)  that will need to be activated for Windows 11 compatibility via the motherboard's BIOS settings.  If your motherboard does not have Secure Boot, your PC is NOT compatible with Windows 11.

All Systems Go?

If your PC hardware has TPM 2.0 installed and both TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot are enabled on your motherboard, and your PC meets the other basic system requirements for Windows 11, you should be good to go for a Windows 11 upgrade!

What about older versions of Windows (like 8.1 or older)?

If your current PC uses a version of Windows older than Windows 10 (such as Windows 8.1/8/7/Vista/XP/ME/2000), then it's important for you to be aware that Microsoft support and security updates have already ended for those operating system versions some years ago, which means they are EXTREMELY VULNERABLE to security risks.

PCs of this age are very unlikely to be compatible with Windows 11 simply due to the age of their  hardware and the likelihood that neither TPM 2.0 nor Secure Boot are supported on that hardware.  If this describes your PC, we encourage you to strongly consider retiring your now-obsolete, insecure, unsupported device in favour of a far more secure & modern Windows 11 replacement.

What if I don't upgrade or replace my Windows 10 PC before Microsoft ends support?

Unfortunately this would mean your PC would become a real target for hackers. Historically, this is what has happened with older operating systems, and with unsupported software in general.  Rest assured that hackers WILL attempt to discover and exploit any vulnerabilities to their benefit and your detriment.

Continuing to use such insecure devices online can have serious consequences for the device owner, such as unexpected data loss due to ransomware attacks or other virus/malware activity, or a lack of security when using all manner of online services which can easily lead to an unwanted intrusion into your PC and/or your online accounts, potentially leading to financial losses or identity theft.

Is all my stuff compatible with Windows 11?

Generally speaking, "most" software and devices that work with Windows 10 also work with Windows 11, with some exceptions.  In some cases, updated drivers or app updates will be needed to make their products fully Windows 11-compatible. When in doubt, check with the product manufacturer for specific compatibility information.

Can my old PC be recycled responsibly if it's not compatible with Windows 11?

Yes!  In British Columbia, your old PC and other electronics can be correctly recycled at at any designated "Return It" facility.  Before doing that, it is strongly recommended to wipe your data completely from the device, or to physically destroy its storage drive(s) before recycling.  If you are engaging our services to supply you with your replacement PC, we are happy to handle data wiping followed by drop-off to recycling for local clients (Nanoose Bay, Parksville, Qualicum Beach, Lantzville & nearby areas) at no additional cost.

More questions?

Interested in upgrading or replacing your PC?  Feel free to contact us to discuss your options in more detail.