Minimum Processor for Windows 11 | Must Know Before Install

What Processor is Required for Windows 11?

To run Windows 10, the necessary PC hardware requirements are relatively tame: a 1GHz processor, 1GB of RAM (2GB for a 64-bit version of the OS), 16GB of storage, and a display capable of 800×600. But Microsoft is always adding new and stricter security requirements for Windows 11, what is the minimum processor for Windows 11 and what are the PC hardware requirements for Windows 11?

To install and run Windows 11, your system should meet the following processor requirements:

• 1 GHz or Faster with 2 or More Cores: Windows 11 requires a processor with a clock speed of 1 GHz or faster. Additionally, it should have at least two cores.
• 64-bit Architecture: Windows 11 is designed for 64-bit processors. Ensure that your processor supports 64-bit architecture.
• Compatible with Windows 11 Virtualization-based Security (VBS) and Hypervisor Platform: Certain security features in Windows 11, such as Virtualization-based Security (VBS) and Hypervisor Platform, may necessitate specific virtualization support in the processor.
• Second Level Address Translation (SLAT): For enhanced virtualization performance, a processor with Second Level Address Translation (SLAT) support is recommended.
• TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot: Windows 11 also requires a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0 and Secure Boot for enhanced security.

For more detailed information, you can go to the Microsoft Windows Processor Requirements page to see if the device you are using is on the list.

What Are the Minimum Windows 11 System Requirements?

In addition to minimum processor requirements for Windows 11, there are many other hardware requirements. You can take a look at the following minimum system requirements to run Windows 11:

• RAM - 4 gigabyte (GB) or greater
• Storage - 64 GB or more of available storage space
• System Firmware - UEFI, Secure Boot Capable
• TPM version - Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0
• Graphics Card - Compatible with DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver
• Display - High definition (720p) display that is 9” or greater diagonally, 8 bits per color channel
• Internet connection - Internet connectivity is necessary to perform updates, and to download and use some features

How to Check if Your PC can Run Windows 11

If you don’t know if your computer meets the Windows 11 minimum requirements, here is a step-by-step guide for you to run this Windows 11 system requirements checker.

Method 1. Use the PC Health Check Tool

Microsoft offers a free app, PC Health Check, to determine whether your PC is capable of running Windows 11.

Step 1. Go to the official Microsoft website and download the PC Health Check tool.

Step 2. Install the PC Health Check tool on your PC and run it to click on Check now. The tool will analyze your system's hardware and check if it meets the minimum requirements for Windows 11.

Step 3. After the analysis, the tool will provide information on whether your PC is compatible with Windows 11. It will also highlight specific areas that may need attention.

Method 2. Manual Check via System Information

You can also manually check your system on the System Information page.

Step 1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog, type "msinfo32," and press Enter to open the System Information window.

Step 2. Under "System Summary," look for the "Processor" entry. Ensure that your processor meets the minimum requirements for Windows 11.

Step 3. Check the "Installed Physical Memory (RAM)" for at least 4 GB and the available storage space to confirm it meets the minimum requirements.

Step 4. Locate the "System Summary" section and check for "TPM Version." Ensure it is TPM version 2.0.

Step 5. Under "Components" in the System Information window, select "Display." Verify that your graphics card supports DirectX 12.

Step 6. In the System Information window, navigate to "System Firmware." Check if "Secure Boot State" is enabled.

Best Free Windows 11 Backup Software - AOMEI Backupper Standard

If you wish to upgrade to Windows 11 from Windows 10 or even older systems, it is always important to create a Windows backup to prevent any system failure.

AOMEI Backupper Standard stands out as an exceptional free backup solution for Windows users. This feature-rich software not only provides robust backup features, like system backup, file/folder backup, disk backup, partition backup, etc., but also offers a user-friendly interface for hassle-free operations. You can go to the Backup tab and select System Backup to create a system image for recovery.

To perform a system restore when your computer crashed, just head to Restore > click Select Task or Select Image File to find the image > restore the backup image with the on-screen guide.

Conclusion

Ensuring that your system meets the minimum processor for Windows 11 as well as other hardware requirements is crucial for a smooth installation and optimal performance of your system. Keep in mind that these requirements may be subject to change, so it's advisable to check the official Microsoft website or use the PC Health Check tool for the most up-to-date information.

If your system does not meet the Windows 11 recommended system requirements, you may need to consider upgrading your hardware or exploring alternative operating systems compatible with your current configuration. One thing that you should not forget is to always create a system image to prevent system failure.