Microsoft explains installation of Windows 11 on unsupported PCs that don’t meet system requirements

Microsoft explains installation of Windows 11 on unsupported PCs that don’t meet system requirements

Microsoft Encourages Users to Transition to Windows 11

Microsoft is actively promoting its latest operating system, Windows 11, utilizing various strategies to convince users to make the switch. Earlier this year, the tech giant released a video advertisement that highlights the benefits of upgrading. In June, a comprehensive article addressed numerous “myths and misconceptions”about the Windows 11 upgrade, aiming to provide clarity to potential users.

Offering Solutions for Unsupported Systems

For users operating outdated and unsupported systems that fail to meet the upgrade’s minimum requirements, Microsoft is encouraging the purchase of new PCs. However, acknowledging the reluctance of many to abandon their current systems, the company is adapting its approach. Recent statistics from Statcounter indicate that the transition to Windows 11 has not been as widespread as Microsoft anticipated.

Upgrading Windows 11 on Unsupported PCs

In a bid to extend accessibility, Microsoft permits users on unsupported PCs to upgrade to Windows 11. This process, however, requires those users to agree to a waiver. To facilitate this, the company has updated a support page designed to assist users in installing Windows 11 on their devices. A key amendment to this page involved clarifying a disclaimer. The previous version lacked an essential phrase, which states: “By selecting Accept, you are acknowledging that you read and understand this statement.”

Full Disclaimer Details

This PC doesn’t meet the minimum system requirements for running Windows 11 – these requirements help ensure a more reliable and higher quality experience. Installing Windows 11 on this PC is not recommended and may result in compatibility issues. If you proceed with installing Windows 11, your PC will no longer be supported and won’t be entitled to receive updates. Damages to your PC due to lack of compatibility aren’t covered under the manufacturer warranty. By selecting Accept, you are acknowledging that you read and understand this statement.

Enhanced Recovery Options

In addition to correcting the disclaimer, Microsoft has introduced a convenient shortcut link for users to access the Recovery menu if issues arise. This improvement is significant, as it allows users to quickly navigate the process of recovery directly from the support article. Furthermore, a detailed step-by-step guide provides additional clarity for users seeking to resolve potential issues with their systems.

New Navigation Steps for Downgrading to Windows 10

To revert to Windows 10 from an unsupported Windows 11 device, follow these steps:

  1. On your unsupported Windows 11 device, either:
    • Right-click on the Start menu and select Settings > System > Recovery. Or
    • Use this Recovery shortcut: Recovery
  2. In the System > Recovery window, under Recovery options, click the Go back button.
  3. If the User Account Control window appears, select Yes. If it requests an admin username and password, provide credentials from an administrator account and then click Yes.
  4. In the Go back to Windows 10 window, click Next.
  5. In the Check for updates? window, select No, thanks.
  6. In the What you need to know window, review the information and select Next.
  7. In the Don’t get locked out window, check the information provided. If you know the password for signing into Windows 10, select Next. Otherwise, select Cancel to postpone reverting until the password can be reset.
  8. In the Thanks for trying Windows 11 window, click the Go back to Windows 10 button.

Access the Updated Support Document

You can review the complete support documentation from Microsoft here.

Limitations for Older Hardware

It’s important to note that users with very old processors lacking support for PopCnt and SSE4.2 instructions will not find a viable bypass for upgrading. Unfortunately, those users remain unable to utilize Windows 11, as no workaround exists at this time.

For more details on how Microsoft is facilitating this transition for users, follow this source.

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