Windows 11 System Requirements: Ultimate Guide
Description
Windows 11 is Microsoft’s new operating system with a new design, improved productivity capabilities, and improved performance. It features a taskbar aligned centrally, redesigned Start menu, and native support of Microsoft Teams capabilities. Windows 11 further incorporates advanced security in the guise of TPM 2.0 mandates, DirectStorage for better gaming performance, and AI in the guise of Copilot integration. For supported hardware, the update allows a new computing experience with widgets, snap layouts, and virtual desktop enhancements.
Developer Details
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Developer | Microsoft Corporation |
| Release Date | October 5, 2021 |
| Latest Version | Windows 11 24H2 (as of March 2025) |
| License Type | Proprietary commercial software |
| Update Cycle | Annual feature updates |
| Predecessor | Windows 10 |
| Official Website | microsoft.com/windows |
Minimum System Requirements
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | 1 GHz or faster with 2+ cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC) |
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Storage | 64 GB or larger storage device |
| System Firmware | UEFI, Secure Boot capable |
| TPM | 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 greater than 9″ diagonally, 8 bits per color channel |
| Internet | Required for setup (Windows 11 Home and Pro) |
| Microsoft Account | Required during initial device setup |
Recommended System Requirements
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | 2 GHz or faster with 4+ cores on a compatible 64-bit processor |
| RAM | 8 GB or more |
| Storage | 256 GB SSD or larger storage device |
| System Firmware | UEFI, Secure Boot enabled |
| TPM | Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0 |
| Graphics Card | DirectX 12 compatible with dedicated GPU |
| Display | Full HD (1080p) display or higher |
| Internet | Broadband connection |
| Additional | Webcam and microphone for video conferencing features |
Copilot+ PC Requirements
Windows 11 introduced special AI capabilities for Copilot+ PCs, which require additional hardware specifications:
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Compatible processor with NPU capable of 40+ TOPS (AMD Ryzen AI 300 series, Intel Core Ultra 200V series, Snapdragon X/X Plus/X Elite) |
| RAM | 16 GB DDR5/LPDDR5 |
| Storage | 256 GB SSD/UFS |
| Other | Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-in Security for some features |
Customer Feedback and Rating
| Aspect | Rating | User Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | “Runs smoothly on newer hardware, but can be demanding on older systems” |
| User Interface | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | “Modern, clean design with intuitive navigation” |
| Compatibility | ⭐⭐⭐ | “Strict requirements limit upgrade options for many existing systems” |
| Security | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | “Enhanced security features provide better protection than previous versions” |
| Features | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | “New additions like Widgets and Snap Layouts improve productivity” |
| Overall Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | “A solid upgrade for compatible systems with modern design and features” |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Modern, visually appealing interface with centered taskbar and rounded corners
- Enhanced security through TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot requirements
- DirectStorage technology for faster game loading times
- Improved multi-monitor and virtual desktop support
- Better touch, pen, and voice input capabilities
- Android app support through Amazon Appstore
- Snap Layouts for improved window management
- Advanced AI features with Microsoft Copilot integration
Cons:
- Strict hardware requirements limit compatibility with older systems
- TPM 2.0 requirement may exclude many otherwise capable PCs
- Some features from Windows 10 have been removed or modified
- Microsoft account required for Home edition
- Initial release had performance issues with certain AMD processors
- Limited customization options for taskbar compared to Windows 10
- Some third-party applications may have compatibility issues
Recommended Software
| Software Category | Recommended Applications |
|---|---|
| Antivirus/Security | Microsoft Defender, Bitdefender, Malwarebytes |
| Productivity | Microsoft 365, Notion, Trello, Slack |
| Media Players | VLC Media Player, Movies & TV (built-in) |
| Web Browsers | Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox |
| Image Editing | Paint.NET, Adobe Photoshop, GIMP |
| Video Editing | DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Premiere Pro, Filmora |
| System Utilities | CCleaner, CPU-Z, HWiNFO |
| Backup Software | Windows Backup (built-in), Macrium Reflect |
Feature-Specific Requirements
Windows 11 includes several that require specific hardware components:
- Auto HDR: Needs HDR monitor
- DirectStorage: Needs NVMe SSD and DirectX12 GPU with Shader Model 6.0 support
- Windows Studio Effects: Needs camera and processor with NPU (10+ TOPS)
- 5G Support: Needs 5G capable modem
- Voice Typing: Needs microphone-enabled PC
- Windows Hello: Needs IR camera or fingerprint reader
Major Windows 11 Differences from Windows 10
Certain Windows 10 features have been dropped or deprecated with the upgrade to Windows 11:
- Cortana is no longer an independent installation app
- Internet Explorer has been dropped and is now replaced with Microsoft Edge with IE mode
- Windows Mixed Reality has been dropped in version 24H2
- Mail, Calendar, and People apps ended support on December 31, 2024
- Start menu no longer supports app folders and named groups
- Tablet Mode is gone and new functionality has taken its place
- Timeline feature has been eliminated
Keeping Windows 11 Current
Windows 11 needs to be updated regularly in order to ensure security and performance. Microsoft advises:
- Having enough free space on your device (at least 20 GB recommended)
- Having a stable internet connection for automatic updating
- Checking if your hardware is supported by the manufacturer
- Periodic checks for available optional updates in Settings
Windows 11 is a radical redesign of Microsoft’s vision for an operating system, with its emphasis on modern look and feel, security, and AI. Although the stricter hardware demands will dissuade some from upgrading, owners of compatible devices will enjoy faster performance, better security, and a fresh user interface designed for the needs of today’s computing.
Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
Q: Is it possible to upgrade to Windows 11 for free?
A: Yes, if your PC meets the system requirements and you are running Windows 10, you can upgrade to Windows 11 for free using Windows Update.
Q: How do I determine if my PC is compatible with Windows 11?
A: You can check using the PC Health Check tool provided by Microsoft to see whether your system supports Windows 11.
Q: Will my files be retained during the upgrade?
A: Your files will be retained during the upgrade. However, it’s always best to back up significant data prior to any major system upgrade.
Q: How many minutes does it take to install Windows 11?
A: Install time depends on your system specifications but usually takes between 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Q: Can I revert back to Windows 10 if I do not like Windows 11?
A: You can revert to Windows 10 within 10 days of updating to Windows 11, and your data and files will remain the same.
Feature Questions
Q: Do I require a Microsoft account to install Windows 11?
A: Windows 11 Home edition requires a Microsoft account and an internet connection at the time of initial setup. Windows 11 Pro may be installed with a local account in some scenarios.
Q: What is TPM and why is it required?
A: TPM (Trusted Platform Module) is a security chip that protects your data. Windows 11 utilizes TPM 2.0 to enhance system security and stop potential threats.
Q: Is my current software still usable on Windows 11?
A: The majority of software that runs on Windows 10 will work on Windows 11. A few older apps may experience some compatibility issues.
Q: What is Copilot in Windows 11?
A: Copilot is Microsoft’s AI assistant in Windows 11, helping users with tasks, answering questions, and improving productivity.
Q: Can I personalize the taskbar and Start menu?
A: Yes, but Windows 11 has fewer customization options than Windows 10. You can still customize things like taskbar alignment and Start items.
Technical Support
Q: My PC qualifies, but Windows Update isn’t providing Windows 11. What can I do?
A: Microsoft is rolling out Windows 11 in stages. You can upgrade manually using the Installation Assistant from Microsoft’s site.
Q: How do I activate TPM 2.0 on my PC?
A: TPM is typically enabled in your system BIOS/UEFI settings. The steps vary by manufacturer, so refer to your PC manual.
Q: Will Windows 11 run on my Mac using Boot Camp?
A: Official Windows 11 support for Mac using Boot Camp is not available due to TPM requirements. Virtual machine software may be a better option.
Q: How much disk space does Windows 11 require?
A: Windows 11 occupies 15-20GB, but you need at least 64GB free for installation and future updates.
Q: Will my devices be supported in Windows 11?
A: Peripherals that worked with Windows 10 should function in Windows 11, but you may need to update drivers for optimal performance.
Leave feedback about this