There is no doubt that whenever there is a huge update in Windows, it automatically becomes a huge buzz around the world. Well, the same is the case with Windows 11, since Windows is the top operating system when it comes to a PC, a lot of people are eagerly waiting for it to release. But more important than that, a lot of us are waiting for the reviews as we would like to know what it’s all about and if it is worth it.
Unlike Apple, the one bad-thing about Windows updates is that they are quite confusing. In the case of Windows 11, Microsoft first omitted the older devices that have the previous generation of intel or AMD chipsets.
However, later they allowed the developers and beta testers to install the OS on the early builds. Still, the decision is far from being made. Still Microsoft said that it is not going to stop people from manually downloading windows 11 even if they have an older build.
Let’s talk about some of the requirement that your system must fulfill if you are looking to setup Windows 11 on it:
- Intel 7th gen processor or higher.
- Intel Core X-series, Xeon, W-series (added later)
- Intel Core 7820HQ (added later)
Now when it comes to AMD, the first generation of AMD Zen processors or anything higher will do. There is no extra addition to the AMD CPU list. Microsoft also tested out the operating system in many builds to come up with the list. Their tests were based on three factors: Reliability, Security and Compatibility.
For the devices that did not match the minimum requirement, the kernel mode crashed almost 52% of the time. And for the devices that matched the requirement, there was a 99.8% crash-free experience.
In a nutshell, Windows 11 raises the baseline for Windows security. It improves the default configuration to combat increasing cyber-attacks for sure.
The data was formulated based on many signals from Microsoft’s threat intelligence along with the input from leading experts in security. These experts included NSA, Canadian Centre for Cyber Security and UK National Cyber Security Center.
The OS completely passed the compatibility test. As most people usually use their PCs for video call, office work, productivity and gaming, all of the tasks were tested on the systems that matched the minimum requirement for Windows 11.
With all of these tests, though Microsoft have given everyone a chance to manually download the update, they have also clearly stated that the OS will not be supported in the older builds. These tests and the 52% crash-rate in the older chipset PCs, has further supported their statement.
Now, since some people can upgrade their system later on, this could be handy for them. But for those who try to set up the OS in a system that doesn’t support it, Microsoft would not be held accountable and might not cover their devices.
In addition to that, it is also reported that if Windows 11 is installed in the systems that don’t meet the requirements, it would not be eligible for updates, which also includes the security updates.
This is certainly a deal-breaker for many who were looking forward to trying it out, since without a proper security system the PC can fall prey to a virus or other kinds of Malware.
In order to install Windows 11 manually, you’ll need to download the ISO file from the official website and boot it on the PC.
This does require some expertise, so it is advised that if you don’t have any knowledge of this, don’t do it. Other than that, it seems that Microsoft might soon have some plans to optimize the OS for the older devices as well. What do you think?
