Microsoft’s Surprising Move on Windows 11 Installations
Less than a week after reinforcing its strict TPM 2.0 requirement for installing Windows 11, Microsoft has taken a surprising turn. The company is now providing official instructions for installing Windows 11 on PCs that don’t meet the minimum hardware requirements — an unexpected decision that raises questions about its long-term policy stance.
The official support page offers step-by-step guidance but opens with a clear warning. Microsoft cautions users about the risks of bypassing compatibility checks:
“Installing Windows 11 on a device that doesn’t meet Windows 11 minimum system requirements isn’t recommended. If Windows 11 is installed on ineligible hardware, you should be comfortable assuming the risk of running into compatibility issues.”
The risks include potential system instability, frequent crashes, and the absence of critical security updates that protect against malware and cyber threats. Users must also acknowledge a disclaimer explicitly stating that such installations are unsupported, void of updates, and can result in hardware damage not covered by warranties.
How to Install Windows 11 on Unsupported PCs
Microsoft’s decision to allow unsupported hardware installations effectively overrides its TPM 2.0 requirement. While the official instructions don’t detail the exact steps, it appears that users can upgrade via the Windows Update app alongside the PC Health Check app. Once installed, unsupported systems will display a desktop watermark and persistent notifications in the Settings app, removable only through registry tweaks.
Returning to Windows 10: A Limited Window
For those who regret upgrading, Microsoft provides a brief window of 10 days to revert to Windows 10 via Settings > System > Recovery > Recovery options. Users are strongly advised to back up their data before attempting any upgrade or rollback to avoid complications.
This move signals a balancing act between enforcing security standards and accommodating user demand, but whether it addresses broader concerns around Windows 11 adoption remains to be seen.
