This computer can't run Windows 11 - how to fix it?
Have you encountered a similar problem when installing Windows 11 on your computer? Microsoft is aware of this issue and there are specific, simple solutions to resolve it. In our article, we will cover the most common causes of this error and help you with simple steps to resolve it.
Windows 11 is a new version of Windows released by Microsoft in 2021. If you're currently using Windows 10 or other versions of Windows supported by Microsoft, you'll receive a free upgrade to Windows 11.
However, when installing or upgrading to Windows 11, users are faced with the “This Computer Cannot Run Windows 11” error. There are several common reasons that cause this error.
If you're worried about how to solve this problem, there's good news. You can fix the error yourself by following our step-by-step guide. Let's look at the most common reasons and their solutions below.
PC must support Secure Boot
On your computer, Secure Boot is a security standard. Secure Boot ensures that your Windows device boots with the manufacturer's trusted firmware. If you want to run Windows 11 on your computer, make sure it supports Secure Boot and has it enabled.
So, if you encounter the "This Computer Cannot Run Windows 11" error, follow these steps to check the status of Secure Boot and enable it.
Enable Secure Boot
Steps to Check Secure Boot Status
Step 1: Search for msinfo32 in Windows Search and select the first result. "System Information" opens.
Step 2: Under System Summary, find BIOS Mode and Secure Boot Status.
If Secure Boot is disabled and BIOS Mode is in UEFI Mode, you need to enable Secure Boot on your computer.
Steps to enable Secure Boot
Step 1: Go to Settings.
Step 2: Select "Update & Security".
Step 3: Select the "Recovery" option.
Step 4: Under Advanced Startup, click the Restart Now button.
Step 5: Select the "Troubleshooting" option.
Step 6: Select "Advanced Options".
Step 7: Open the UEFI Firmware Settings option.
Step 8: Click the Reset button.
Step 9: Open the download or security settings page.
Step 10: Go to the "Secure Boot" option and press the Enter key.
Step 11: Select the Enabled option and press the Enter key again.
Step 12: Exit the UEFI configuration. Confirm the new changes and restart your computer.
Following these simple steps will enable Secure Boot on your computer. After the system restarts, rerun the Windows 11 installation and check if the error persists.
System disk must be 64 GB or larger
Updating and installing Windows 11 will take up space on your computer's hard drive. Windows 11 requires 64 GB or more of system disk space. If your system is less than 64 GB. As a result, you will receive the error "This PC can't run Windows 11." You should check if there is enough free space on your system drive (drive C).
Check the free space on drive C
Follow the below steps to check if your C drive has enough space for installation/update or not.
Step 1: Open File Explorer.
Step 2: Right-click on the C drive and select Properties.
Step 3: Look at the available space. If there is less than 64 GB of free space, make roomby removing some programs or files.
The processor is not compatible with Windows 11
Microsoft has announced that Windows 11 is compatible with the following processors:
- Intel Processors: 8th generation or later.
- AMD Processors: Ryzen 2000 or later.
- Qualcomm processors: Snapdragon.
You may not be able to upgrade to Windows 11 if your PC has an earlier version, such as a 7th generation Intel processor.
CPU repair
Let's assume that your processor is not compatible with Windows 11. In this case, you can wait for the official release of Windows 11 and see if anything has changed. Another option is to buy a new computer that can run Windows 11.
Note: There is a possibility that data on your Windows computer may be lost during the update process.
Frequently asked questions about upgrading to Windows 11
What's new in Windows 11?
Windows 11 introduces new features and productivity features to meet the challenges of a hybrid world. It introduces a completely new look and feel that lets you achieve more with less effort.
Is it possible to upgrade to Windows 11 for free?
When can I upgrade to Windows 11 for free from Windows 10?
Do I need to upgrade to Windows 11 if I'm using Windows 10?
How long does it take to install Windows 11?
What are the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 11?
Note: Windows 11 is a new version and is currently not as stable as other versions of Windows. Therefore, you should take some necessary precautions before installing Windows 11. It is best to back up all your important data to avoid serious damage such as data loss.
Final result:
The “This Computer Cannot Run Windows 11” error often occurs when upgrading to Windows 11. Most of the users who have tried to upgrade Windows 11 have encountered this error.
However, Microsoft is aware of this issue and is working on a permanent fix for this issue. In the meantime, the user community has found several solutions to this problem.
If you want to solve this problem, you need to understand the reasons why it occurs. The most common reasons include Secure Boot being disabled, a storage issue, and a CPU issue.
Our article provides step-by-step solutions to the above-mentioned causes of this problem. If you lost data when upgrading to Windows 11, you can use Wondershare Recoverit Data Recovery. Wondershare Recoverit is highly recommended for its highly accurate and reliable data recovery results.
