Microsoft Stands Firm on Windows 11's TPM 2.0 Requirement

The company reaffirms its strict hardware standards, leaving many older PCs unable to upgrade as Windows 10 support nears its end in October 2025.

Microsoft has reiterated that TPM 2.0, a hardware-based security feature, is a mandatory requirement for Windows 11, calling it a 'non-negotiable standard.'
Windows 10 support will officially end on October 14, 2025, leaving millions of devices without security updates unless users pay for a $30 Extended Security Update (ESU) for one additional year.
The strict hardware requirements, including TPM 2.0 and newer CPUs, exclude many older PCs, potentially forcing users to upgrade their systems or purchase new devices.
TPM 2.0 enables advanced security capabilities such as Secure Boot, BitLocker encryption, and support for AI-driven features, which Microsoft argues are essential for countering modern cyber threats.
Critics warn that Microsoft's stance could lead to significant hardware waste, with millions of PCs potentially headed for disposal due to incompatibility with Windows 11.