How to Check if Your PC Meets Windows 11 Requirements

Unlike prior updates, Windows 11 demands compliance with the set standards before installation begins.

This means older systems, even some built after 2017, may no longer qualify for the upgrade. In addition to security-focused features, the operating system was engineered to support newer instruction sets and virtualisation models.

If you’re unsure whether your PC meets the baseline, the only efficient path forward is a compatibility check.

It won’t lock you into upgrading, but it will clarify whether your system qualifies or needs modification.

Nobody enjoys discovering incompatibility midway through a scheduled update. Let’s walk through exactly how to verify system readiness with complete confidence.

Minimum System Requirements for Windows 11

Windows 11 requires your PC to meet a strict set of hardware conditions.

These were introduced to improve system security, performance, and compatibility with modern software environments.

Every device must pass these baseline checks before installation proceeds, either through Microsoft’s own PC Health Check or manual verification.

You may already meet some criteria without knowing it, though others (TPM and Secure Boot, for instance) require closer inspection.

Below is the complete list of minimum system requirements for Windows 11, as published by Microsoft:

Processor: 1 GHz or faster with two or more cores on a 64-bit compatible chip. Supported CPUs include Intel 8th Gen and AMD Ryzen 2000 series onward.
RAM: 4 GB minimum.
Storage: 64 GB or more.
System Firmware: UEFI-based with Secure Boot capability enabled.
TPM: Version 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module).
Graphics Card: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later and includes a WDDM 2.0 driver.
Display: High-definition (720p) display with at least a 9-inch diagonal and 8 bits per color channel.
Internet Connection: Required for setup of Windows 11 Home and for updates, Microsoft services, and some features.

Method 1 – Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check Tool

Microsoft provides a dedicated application called PC Health Check that evaluates your system's readiness for Windows 11.

The tool examines hardware components, firmware settings, and security capabilities before presenting a simple compatibility verdict.

It offers the most direct route for users who prefer an official assessment.

Visit the Microsoft Windows 11 download page
Open your browser and go to the official Microsoft website. Scroll until you find the PC Health Check application under the Windows 11 installation resources.
Download and install the application
Run the installer and accept the standard user prompts. The program installs quickly and adds a desktop shortcut for easier access.
Open the PC Health Check tool
Launch the application and wait for the system summary to appear. This includes device age, storage details, and update status.
Select the Windows 11 compatibility option
Click the "Check Now" button. The tool initiates a full scan of your processor class, Secure Boot state, TPM availability, memory, and storage.
Review the compatibility report
The tool presents a clear result along with a breakdown of each requirement. You may see items like TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot flagged for inspection.
Explore the detailed guidance
If a component needs adjustment, the tool links to Microsoft support articles. These guide you through enabling firmware features or reviewing specific system details.

Method 2 – Use WhyNotWin11 (Advanced Users)

WhyNotWin11 is a free, open-source application that performs a deeper diagnostic check for Windows 11 readiness.

It breaks down each requirement individually and visually flags which criteria your system fails to meet. Unlike Microsoft’s tool, this application shows the exact causes, such as a mismatch between the TPM version and the CPU generation.

It’s often used by technicians who need visibility beyond a single compatibility verdict.

Download WhyNotWin11 from GitHub
Visit the project’s official GitHub page and scroll to the releases section. Download the latest executable file. It does not require installation.
Enable app permissions if prompted
Windows SmartScreen may block the file. Click More Info, then Run Anyway. This is normal for unsigned diagnostic apps.
Make sure .NET Framework is installed
WhyNotWin11 requires .NET 4.8 or higher. Most Windows 10 systems already have it, but you can download it from Microsoft if needed.
Run the tool and let it scan your system
Double-click the file. The scan begins automatically. Within seconds, the interface shows green, orange, or red flags for each hardware component.
Analyse the compatibility map
Each flag corresponds to a specific requirement: CPU class, RAM, Secure Boot, TPM, storage, etc. Hover over each result for technical notes.
Use the feedback to guide firmware adjustments
If TPM or Secure Boot shows as unsupported, check your BIOS settings. Some values are turned off by default on custom-built or business PCs.

Method 3 – Manually Compare System Specs

If you prefer not to use third-party or downloadable tools, Windows allows you to access all key hardware details manually.

This method requires checking specific locations in your system settings and BIOS interface, then comparing each value against Windows 11’s published specifications.

It takes a bit of time, but it offers complete control.

Check your processor model and generation
Open the Start menu, type System Information, and press Enter. Look for the Processor line. Note the model and cross-check it on Microsoft's supported CPU list.
Review installed memory (RAM)
In the same window, find Installed Physical Memory (RAM). Windows 11 requires at least 4 GB of RAM. Most modern systems exceed this, but it's worth confirming.
Confirm UEFI and Secure Boot status
Under BIOS Mode, verify that it says UEFI. Then open System Summary > Secure Boot State. If it says "Off," you may need to enable it in the BIOS.
Check TPM availability and version
Press Win+R, type tpm.msc, and hit Enter. In the TPM Management window, confirm that the Status is ready and that the Specification Version shows 2.0.
Verify available storage space
Open Settings > System > Storage. Windows 11 requires at least 64 GB of storage. If you’re running low on space, you may need to clean up or upgrade the drive.

What to Do if Your PC Is Not Compatible

Failing the compatibility check does not turn off your system or force an upgrade decision. It simply means your device does not meet Microsoft’s baseline for Windows 11 deployment.

Often, the issue traces back to a firmware setting, an unsupported CPU class, or missing security modules like TPM 2.0.

In some cases, you can upgrade the necessary hardware, such as a TPM module or a supported processor, if your motherboard allows it. Besides that, many users choose to continue using Windows 10, which will receive updates through October 2025.

On top of that, enterprise users often maintain long-term servicing branches with extended support.

If you’re comfortable with your current setup and don’t need the features of Windows 11, there’s no immediate urgency to change anything. You’re still in control of when and how to upgrade.