Your CPU isn't compatible with Windows 11, and you can't push it through. Got it!
Your CPU isn't compatible with Windows 11, and you can't push it through. Got it!
I've tested it on roughly six to eight machines, including a Core 2 Duo, without any issues—just for a quick check. All of them are running Windows 10, and each has Windows 11 activated as well, with daily updates to Windows Defender. The version I installed is Build 22000.194.
I disabled Windows Defender or at least silenced it. Using Gpedit.msc it doesn’t function properly, so I rely on a program that handles it with a single click. It consumes memory.
I'm testing it on a 6700HQ without any problems. It hasn't asked me about my CPU during installation. FTPM is turned on and Secureboot is off. I'm using a dual-boot setup with Zorin as my main OS, which is why I chose a ThinkPad.
Only SecureBoot is required; it doesn’t need to be fully activated. During my testing a few months back (especially on Insider builds), it worked without needing the full setup. The OEM usually enables it automatically, but that wasn’t necessary in my case.
This decision by Microsoft is clearly flawed, pushing millions of users to upgrade their laptops solely for an iOS update. My MSI Dominator Pro, which I purchased four years ago, functions perfectly. The real issue now is the Windows 11 update, which is being rejected simply due to processor specifications. My system runs a Intel Core i7 6700HQ at 2.60GHz, Skylake 14nm, with 32GB RAM and various graphics cards. Storage includes a TOSHIBA SSD and several monitors. It’s no longer possible to buy such a laptop today.
Windows 10 remains compatible through the end of 2025. An upgrade to Windows 11 is possible, though Microsoft warns users they’re operating independently, similar to unsupported CPU models in Windows 10.
This situation is totally absurd. My expensive XPS from 2017 is only four years old, and it struggles with the newest operating systems because its specifications are so outdated. I’m fine using Windows 10 on older processors without major problems—the system updates smoothly from Vista to 10. Still, they can’t run two consecutive Windows versions well together. If I have to upgrade, I might go for a Mac instead just because of it. At least my 2013 MacBook has the latest software.