Windows 11 normally requires TPM 2.0 on supported PCs. If setup says the computer does not meet the TPM requirement, first check whether TPM is present but disabled in UEFI/BIOS. Installing Windows 11 by bypassing its hardware requirements can leave the PC in an unsupported configuration.
Check for TPM before considering a workaround
- Press Windows + R, type
tpm.msc, and press Enter if an existing Windows installation is available. - Check whether TPM is present and whether the specification version is 2.0.
- If TPM is unavailable, check the computer or motherboard manufacturer’s documentation. Firmware TPM may be labeled Intel PTT, AMD fTPM, or a similar name in UEFI settings.
- Also check the processor, Secure Boot capability, memory, and storage against Microsoft’s current Windows 11 requirements.
Do not disable Secure Boot or other security features merely to make installation easier. On many compatible systems, enabling the built-in firmware TPM is all that is necessary.
What if the PC really does not meet the requirements?
Microsoft has documented ways in which Windows 11 may be installed on some unsupported hardware, but Microsoft also warns that such devices are not supported and are not guaranteed to receive updates. Requirements and setup behavior can change, so consult Microsoft’s current documentation before proceeding rather than relying on old registry or installer-bypass instructions.
If the computer is important for work, security, or reliability, using supported hardware is the safer choice. Back up important files before any operating-system installation.
If you use device encryption or BitLocker, make sure you have the recovery key before changing TPM or firmware settings. Firmware changes can trigger a recovery-key prompt.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.