What causes This PC can't run Windows 11?

The processor, TPM 2.0 chip, or Secure Boot feature is missing or incompatible. (most likely) TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot is turned off in the BIOS/UEFI settings. (possible) The PC has less than 4 GB RAM or a hard drive smaller than 64 GB. (less likely)

How do I fix This PC can't run Windows 11?

Try these in order, safest first: 1. Run the official Microsoft PC Health Check tool. 2. Check BIOS settings for TPM and Secure Boot.

This PC can't run Windows 11

Last checked 2026-10-26 · 2 fixes · reviewed answer

TL;DRWindows has checked your hardware and decided it does not meet the minimum requirements for Windows 11, so the upgrade or install is blocked.

Most likely cause: The processor, TPM 2.0 chip, or Secure Boot feature is missing or incompatible

Try first: Run the official Microsoft PC Health Check tool

Likely causes

The processor, TPM 2.0 chip, or Secure Boot feature is missing or incompatiblemost likely
TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot is turned off in the BIOS/UEFI settingspossible
The PC has less than 4 GB RAM or a hard drive smaller than 64 GBless likely

How to fix it

Safest first: SafeChanges settingsDangerous

Run the official Microsoft PC Health Check toolSafe

Download the free PC Health Check app from Microsoft, run it, and note exactly which requirement fails.
Check BIOS settings for TPM and Secure BootChanges settings

Restart the PC, enter BIOS/UEFI setup (usually by pressing Del, F2 or F10), look for TPM or PTT and Secure Boot options, and enable them if present. Save and exit.

⚠ Incorrect BIOS changes can prevent the PC from starting; note current settings before changing anything.

If that didn't fix it

Run the PC Health Check app again after any BIOS changes and note the exact failing requirement listed.

When to see a technician

If the PC is several years old and you need Windows 11, have a technician check whether a BIOS update or hardware upgrade is feasible.

Quick answers

What does This PC can't run Windows 11 mean?: Windows has checked your hardware and decided it does not meet the minimum requirements for Windows 11, so the upgrade or install is blocked.
What causes This PC can't run Windows 11?: The processor, TPM 2.0 chip, or Secure Boot feature is missing or incompatible. (most likely) TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot is turned off in the BIOS/UEFI settings. (possible) The PC has less than 4 GB RAM or a hard drive smaller than 64 GB. (less likely)
How do I fix This PC can't run Windows 11?: Try these in order, safest first: 1. Run the official Microsoft PC Health Check tool. 2. Check BIOS settings for TPM and Secure Boot.
What if that didn't fix it?: Run the PC Health Check app again after any BIOS changes and note the exact failing requirement listed.
When should I see a technician?: If the PC is several years old and you need Windows 11, have a technician check whether a BIOS update or hardware upgrade is feasible.

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