Windows 11 is here: These are the computer requirements it must meet.

Most computer users still remember the melancholic farewell to Windows XP, which remains the most popular operating system of all time. However, progress hasn't stood still since then, and now Microsoft's latest version is ready for launch: Windows 11 has hit the market. If you don't yet own a computer, you can simply buy a Windows 11 PC today, and it will automatically be state-of-the-art. But what about all the computers already sitting on people's desks? What are the requirements for upgrading to Windows 11?

A look into the future - what can Windows 11 do?

Originally, Microsoft hadn't planned a new version of the operating system. In 2014, it was clearly stated that Windows 10 would be the last classic version released. And yet, everything has changed, and millions of PC users are now faced with the question of whether an upgrade to Windows 11 is worthwhile and even possible. Is the term "upgrade" accurate? Windows 11 is more than just an improved version of its predecessor; it's an operating system with a completely new look and feel. Improved boot options, semi-transparent themes, optimized multitasking—all this is promised by the new version.

The reduced memory requirements seem particularly appealing here. Compared to its predecessor, Windows 11 is expected to use only about 60% of the RAM, thus reducing the strain on the hard drive. The new operating system will be available from October 2021, and existing Windows 10 installations can be upgraded in the usual way. No new costs, no need to buy a full version – that's the good news. Pricing for purchasing the operating system alone has not yet been clearly announced, but newly manufactured computers will ship with Windows 11 pre-installed.

One problem, however, is the significantly increased system requirements compared to Windows 10. Even perfectly functioning computers may no longer be able to run the new version of the operating system.

These requirements are necessary for the new upgrade to Windows 11.

Many users were never truly convinced by Windows 10, even years after its release. The upgrade to Windows 11 therefore seems to be coming at just the right time.

But what capabilities must the computer possess to even consider the transition?

• Graphics card: Minimum requirement compatibility with DirectX 12 and better, as well as WDDM 2.0 drivers.
• A Microsoft account is a mandatory requirement.
• Storage space: 4 GB RAM, significantly better performance with 8 or 16 GB
• BIOS Firmware: UEFI BIOS with existing unlock
• Processor: Minimum performance of 1 GHz and 2 cores with an existing 64-bit CPU.
• Storage requirements: At least 64 GB of free hard drive space

The specifications are minimum requirements. Stable functionality requires a stable PC architecture. Even if the computer meets all requirements, the overall components may be too weak for a smooth upgrade to Windows 11. In practice, however, this only becomes noticeable when performance falls significantly short of Windows 10.

Optimize or buy new hardware?

It's a huge disappointment when your PC isn't powerful enough to install the free Windows 11 upgrade. While the upgrade isn't yet mandatory, Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 by October 2025 at the latest. By then, your hardware should be optimized to meet your needs.

Theoretically, there are two possible solutions. On the one hand, you can optimize your existing PC by replacing some components. However, it's important to note that, for example, a CPU upgrade often necessitates a new graphics card, a new motherboard, and consequently, new RAM modules. Therefore, it's sometimes more economical to buy a completely new computer. The advantage here is that the new operating system is often already pre-installed, eliminating the need for an update.

Approximately 88 million new PCs are purchased worldwide every quarter, and these numbers increase when new operating systems or hardware are released.

Is it compatible with Windows 11? A quick PC check

Although the requirements are clearly written, many consumers wonder if their used computer who can handle Windows 11? After all, who really knows how many cores their CPU has or how good their graphics card is? A large portion of computer users focus more on software that works and lack knowledge about the... Effects of suitable hardware. Checking a computer's suitability for Windows 11 doesn't require complex knowledge. A click on Microsoft's built-in system integrity program, available on all Windows 10 computers, clearly shows any existing problems. The software indicates whether the current computer is suitable for Windows 11 or if there are any issues. Incompatible modules are listed, making it theoretically possible to address the problem directly. However, if the existing system is already outdated, a complete new purchase can bring a breath of fresh air to the desk.

Reinstalling Windows 11 using an ISO file is one option.

If the compatibility check fails, Windows 11 cannot be installed using the traditional method. However, there are now ways to bypass the setup block. In this case, the new operating system can be installed despite the component mismatch.

Sometimes, however, it's worth taking a look at the BIOS. If the necessary conditions aren't met, the computer will display an error, even though the hardware is actually capable of installing Windows 11. Such errors are usually easy to fix, so it's important to pay attention to the reasons given during the analysis. Top used HP computers You can find them here. 

Although only certain devices with pre-installed Windows 10 will receive a Windows 11 upgrade via Windows Updates, Windows 11 is compatible with most devices. If you wish, you can perform a Windows 11 installation on a device with pre-installed Windows 10. such an installation However, this is only recommended for experienced users. Refurbished brand-name hardware is now available with both Windows 10 and Windows 11 pre-installed.