How to Fix the “This PC Can’t Run Windows 11” Error

Windows 11 is the latest operating system from Microsoft, offering a range of new features and improvements over its predecessor. However, when attempting to upgrade to Windows 11, some users may encounter the frustrating error message “This PC can’t run Windows 11.” This error typically occurs when the system requirements for Windows 11 are not met. In this article, we will explore the possible causes of this error and provide step-by-step solutions to fix it.

Understanding the System Requirements for Windows 11

Before diving into the solutions, it is essential to understand the system requirements for Windows 11. Microsoft has raised the bar for hardware specifications to ensure optimal performance and security. Here are the minimum system requirements for Windows 11:

• Processor: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC)
• RAM: 4 gigabytes (GB) or more
• Storage: 64 GB or more
• System Firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable
• TPM: Trusted Platform Module version 2.0
• Graphics Card: DirectX 12 compatible or later with a WDDM 2.0 driver
• Display: High definition (720p) display, 9″ or greater diagonal, 8 bits per color channel
• Internet Connection: Internet connectivity is necessary to perform updates and to download and take advantage of some features

It is important to note that these are the minimum requirements, and for the best experience, it is recommended to have a more powerful system. If your PC does not meet these requirements, you may encounter the “This PC can’t run Windows 11” error.

Possible Causes of the “This PC Can’t Run Windows 11” Error

There are several reasons why you may encounter the “This PC can’t run Windows 11” error. Understanding these causes can help you identify the appropriate solution. Here are some possible causes:

1. Incompatible Processor: Windows 11 requires a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC) with at least 2 cores. If your processor does not meet these requirements, you will receive the error message.
2. Insufficient RAM: Windows 11 requires a minimum of 4 GB of RAM. If your system has less than this amount, you will not be able to upgrade to Windows 11.
3. Low Storage Space: Windows 11 requires a minimum of 64 GB of storage. If your system has less than this amount, you will need to free up space or upgrade your storage.
4. Incompatible System Firmware: Windows 11 requires a UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability. If your system does not have this firmware, you will encounter the error.
5. Missing TPM 2.0: Windows 11 requires a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0. If your system does not have TPM 2.0, you will not be able to install Windows 11.
6. Incompatible Graphics Card: Windows 11 requires a DirectX 12 compatible graphics card with a WDDM 2.0 driver. If your graphics card does not meet these requirements, you will receive the error message.
7. Incompatible Display: Windows 11 requires a high-definition display with a resolution of at least 720p and a diagonal size of 9 inches or greater. If your display does not meet these requirements, you will encounter the error.
8. Internet Connection Issues: If your internet connection is unstable or not available, you may encounter issues during the Windows 11 installation process.

Solutions to Fix the “This PC Can’t Run Windows 11” Error

Now that we have identified the possible causes of the error, let’s explore the solutions to fix it:

1. Check Processor Compatibility

The first step is to ensure that your processor is compatible with Windows 11. You can check the compatibility by following these steps:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “msinfo32” (without quotes) and press Enter.
3. In the System Information window, look for the “Processor” field under the “System Summary” section.
4. Check if the processor meets the requirements mentioned earlier.

If your processor is not compatible, you will need to upgrade your hardware to meet the requirements.

2. Upgrade RAM

If your system has less than 4 GB of RAM, you will need to upgrade it to meet the minimum requirements. Adding more RAM can significantly improve the performance of your system, not just for Windows 11 but for other applications as well.

3. Free Up Storage Space

If your system has less than 64 GB of storage, you will need to free up space or upgrade your storage. Here are some ways to free up storage space:

• Delete unnecessary files and folders.
• Uninstall unused applications.
• Use disk cleanup tools to remove temporary files and system junk.
• Move files to an external storage device or cloud storage.

If none of these options are feasible, consider upgrading your storage by adding a larger hard drive or SSD.

4. Check System Firmware

To check if your system firmware is compatible with Windows 11, follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “msinfo32” (without quotes) and press Enter.
3. In the System Information window, look for the “BIOS Mode” field under the “System Summary” section.
4. If the BIOS Mode is “Legacy,” your system firmware is not compatible with Windows 11. In this case, you may need to update your firmware or consider upgrading your hardware.

5. Enable TPM 2.0

To enable TPM 2.0, follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “tpm.msc” (without quotes) and press Enter.
3. In the TPM Management window, check if TPM is enabled.
4. If TPM is not enabled, consult your system’s documentation or manufacturer’s website for instructions on how to enable it.

6. Update Graphics Card Driver

If your graphics card driver is not compatible with Windows 11, you will need to update it. Here’s how:

1. Right-click on the Start button and select “Device Manager.”
2. In the Device Manager window, expand the “Display adapters” category.
3. Right-click on your graphics card and select “Update driver.”
4. Choose the option to search automatically for updated driver software.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the driver update process.

7. Check Display Compatibility

To check if your display is compatible with Windows 11, follow these steps:

1. Right-click on the desktop and select “Display settings.”
2. In the Display settings window, scroll down to the “Advanced display settings” section and click on it.
3. Under the “Resolution” dropdown menu, check if 720p or higher resolutions are available.
4. If only lower resolutions are available, your display may not meet the requirements for Windows 11. Consider upgrading to a compatible display.

8. Ensure Stable Internet Connection

During the Windows 11 installation process, it is crucial to have a stable internet connection. Unstable or slow internet connections can lead to errors and interruptions. Make sure you have a reliable internet connection before attempting to install Windows 11.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I still use Windows 10 if my PC can’t run Windows 11?

A: Yes, you can continue using Windows 10 if your PC does not meet the system requirements for Windows 11. Microsoft will continue to support Windows 10 until October 14, 2025.

Q: Will upgrading my hardware solve the “This PC can’t run Windows 11” error?

A: Upgrading your hardware, such as adding more RAM or upgrading your storage, can help meet the system requirements for Windows 11. However, it is essential to ensure that all other components, such as the processor and graphics card, also meet the requirements.

Q: Can I bypass the system requirements and force install Windows 11?

A: It is not recommended to bypass the system requirements and force install Windows 11. Doing so may result in compatibility issues, performance problems, and potential security vulnerabilities. It is best to ensure that your PC meets the requirements before attempting to install Windows 11.

Conclusion

The “This PC can’t run Windows 11” error can be frustrating, but with the right solutions, you can overcome it. By checking your hardware compatibility, upgrading components if necessary, and ensuring a stable internet connection, you can successfully install Windows 11. Remember to always check the system requirements and consult official Microsoft resources for the most up-to-date information. With these steps, you’ll be on your way to enjoying the new features and improvements of Windows 11.