Windows

How to Upgrade to Windows 11 on for Unsupported PCs

Richard
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Richard
Nov 20, 2021 Updated Apr 15, 2026 2 min read

Many users want to try the latest software but find their computers do not meet the strict new standards. This guide helps you install Windows 11 on older machines that Microsoft officially says are not supported.

Why do this? Some computers are still very fast but lack specific security chips or newer processors required by Windows 11. This method lets you bypass those checks.

What happens when done? You will have a fully functional version of Windows 11 installed on your existing computer without needing to erase your files or reinstall your programs.

If you have a valid Windows 10 license, you can upgrade to Windows 11 for free. However, your machine must meet Windows 11 minimum requirements to upgrade normally or use the standard methods.. If your system is older, you can use the steps below. We have also written a guide on how to install Windows 11 on unsupported PCs.

Downloading the Windows 11 ISO

First, get the Windows 11 installation file. Go to Windows 11 ISO download site and find the “Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO)” section. Select Windows 11, choose your language, and click the 64-bit download button. You can also follow this guide: How to download Windows 11 ISO file.

Editing the Registry to Bypass Checks

Note: This step requires administrator privileges. Be careful, as changing registry settings can affect your system.

You need to tell Windows to ignore the CPU and security requirements. How to open and edit the Windows registry

Open the Registry Editor by searching for “regedit” in your start menu. Navigate to this path:

Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\Setup\MoSetup

Registry editor for bypassing CPU checks in Windows 11

Right-click in the empty space on the right side. Select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name this new item exactly as follows:

AllowUpgradesWithUnsupportedTPMOrCPU

Windows registry DWORD settings for CPU checks

Double-click this new item. In the box labeled “Value data,” type 1 and click OK. Close the editor.

Changing CPU check value for Windows 11 upgrade

Upgrading to Windows 11

Go to your Downloads folder. Right-click the Windows 11 ISO file you downloaded and select Mount to mount the ISO file. Open the folder and double-click the setup file to start the process.

Launching Windows 11 setup file for installation

Click Next when the installer opens.

Next steps in installing Windows 11 on unsupported PCs

If you did everything correctly, you will see a warning message instead of an error. You can now proceed with the installation while keeping your files and programs safe.

Summary

  • Ensure you have a valid Windows 10 license.
  • Download the Windows 11 ISO from the official Microsoft site.
  • Use the Registry Editor to create the AllowUpgradesWithUnsupportedTPMOrCPU value.
  • Run the setup file from the mounted ISO.
  • Always back up your files before starting any major system upgrade.

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Tags: #Windows 11
Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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