Microsoft has recently revised its stance on installing Windows 11, allowing devices that do not meet the operating system’s minimum requirements to run the software. This unexpected policy change comes just days after the company reaffirmed its position that a TPM 2.0 chip was a “non-negotiable” requirement for official use of Windows 11. However, the company has now released a support page detailing how users can bypass these hardware restrictions.
Despite providing these guidelines, Microsoft has made it clear that it does not recommend this approach. Users who choose to install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware must accept several potential risks. These include compatibility problems that may hinder performance, the possibility of missing out on critical updates such as security patches, and a lack of coverage under manufacturer warranties for any issues caused by compatibility conflicts. To further emphasize the limitations of this approach, Microsoft has implemented a watermark on desktops of unsupported devices and added notifications in the Settings menu about unmet requirements.
For those who encounter problems with Windows 11, Microsoft has also outlined steps for rolling back to Windows 10. However, this rollback option is only available within 10 days of installation, leaving users a narrow window to revert if they encounter issues.
While Microsoft has not explicitly explained why it decided to ease these restrictions, market data offers some possible clues. According to Statcounter, Windows 10’s market share has risen recently, while Windows 11’s adoption has seen a slight decline. This trend could suggest hesitation among users to upgrade, particularly due to stringent hardware requirements. With Windows 10 support scheduled to end in October 2025, and limited options for extended security updates beyond that, the move may be an effort to increase Windows 11 adoption before the older operating system is phased out.
For users, this development provides a path to access Windows 11 on older hardware but comes with significant caveats. The risk of missing updates or experiencing system instability may make this option less appealing to those relying on long-term reliability. For now, many may opt to stick with Windows 10 until its support window closes or until Windows 11 requirements are further relaxed.
