Problems setting up Windows 11? Here are some common issues:
Problems setting up Windows 11? Here are some common issues:
My mom's computer doesnt officially support Windows 11. It's a Lenovo Desktop with a 2200G and 8 Gigs of ram. I was planning on just trying to by pass method to upgrade but I have a few questions as Ive never used this method. So I download the ISO from Microsoft and using RUFUS I check the by pass box and image the ISO to a flash drive. 1) Secure Boot vs No Secure Boot. While I know the bypass will remove the secure boot requirement, is there any benefit to enabling it? 2) GPT vs MBR, Im assuming I will need to make sure Im using GPT? 3) Activation. This is a OEM copy of Windows 10. Now I should just be able to install 11 and it will find the Windows 10 key in BIOS and activate it? I recall when. I upgrade my gaming rig, I installed Windows 10 clean and just preformed an upgrade install, as I wasn't sure I could use my Windows 10 key directly. 4) I see everyone suggest 16 Gigs of RAM with Windows 11. This machine has 8. Would you suggest an upgrade? (If so I'll likely just take the RAM out of my gaming rig, and upgrade the ram in my gaming rig.
It's mainly there to check if the operating system or boot sector has been altered. You don't need to worry about leaving it active unless you're using Linux in the background, which isn't ideal for most users. I stick with the default settings of my motherboard unless I'm installing a Linux distribution—except for Ubuntu, Fedora, and similar systems with built-in Secure Boot keys. Both should work with Windows 11, though GPT is the safer choice and less likely to fail if Microsoft updates MBR support. It's essentially a guess. I suspect it probably won't be an issue, but who knows? The Windows Activation Service behaves strangely when it evaluates licenses and hardware changes. Someone else might have a clearer perspective and offer a better explanation. I’d likely prefer at least 16GB of RAM, but 8GB could suffice if you already have it. If you hit performance issues due to low memory, upgrading is inexpensive and straightforward.
This change somewhat undermines the purpose if Windows can't be activated, Since she’s likely to prefer not having custom settings when it’s unactivated.
Linux systems today support Secure Boot or not, originally designed to prevent board manufacturers from installing Linux or BSD. Shortly after its release, developers modified the Linux kernel to overcome this barrier, enabling dual-boot setups. At that time, running Linux alongside Windows was possible, though not always smooth. I’m uncertain about Windows 11, but a neighbor had a budget laptop with Windows 10 Pro for just $89, featuring 2GB RAM and the ability to use two apps simultaneously without noticeable performance drops.
Secure Boot ensures no unauthorized malware runs at startup, keeping it concealed from antivirus tools like MS Defender. The drive must be formatted as GPT, and the BIOS should transition from CSM to UEFI for proper GPT support. Upgrading to Windows 11 version 11 is recommended for activation verification, followed by a clean format or reinstall to prepare the drive. A minimum of 16GB is suggested, though 32GB or more is ideal for business devices. Always confirm the BIOS firmware is current before installing Windows 11.
You're right, the 2200G CPU limits upgrades. It's risky to rely on future Windows updates for compatibility. ChromeOS Flex seems like a safer option. Check out their site for more info.
Chrome OS isn't compatible with her printer. I've reviewed the list Google provided, and it looks like a no-go. I'm just hoping she doesn't have to spend money on a new machine. Everyone says the bypass method is an option, but I'm not sure. This is really frustrating. Maybe I'll switch to Ubuntu when support ends. She might manage, but otherwise she'll be paying over $500 for Microsoft's latest mistake.
You might consider buying a one-year Windows 10 ESU license (still pending but arriving soon). This delays the issue but provides a buffer to maintain security updates while planning for a future upgrade.