How to Check if Your CPU Is Compatible with Windows 11

To determine if your CPU is compatible with Windows 11, you can use several methods, including Microsoft’s official tools and manual checks. Below are the steps to verify your CPU’s compatibility:

Method 1: Using Microsoft’s PC Health Check Tool

Download the PC Health Check Tool:

Visit the official Microsoft website and download the PC Health Check tool.

Install the Tool:

Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install the application.

Run the Application:

Open the PC Health Check tool after installation.

Check Compatibility:

Click on the “Check Now” button. The tool will analyze your hardware and present a summary of whether your device meets the Windows 11 requirements.

If your device is not compatible, the tool will provide specific details about which requirements are not met.

Method 2: Manual Compatibility Check

Check Processor

Open System Information:

Press Win + R, type dxdiag, and press Enter.
In the System section, note your processor’s name and speed.

Verify Compatibility:

Compare your processor with the official list of supported CPUs from Microsoft.

Check RAM

In the same DXDiag window, check the total amount of RAM your PC has. Windows 11 requires at least 4 GB of RAM.

Check Storage

Go to This PC in File Explorer, and under Devices and drives, check your available storage space. Windows 11 requires at least 64 GB of available storage.

Check System Firmware

Restart your PC and enter the BIOS setup (usually by pressing F2, F10, or DEL during the boot process). Ensure your system is configured to boot in UEFI mode.

Check TPM Version

Open TPM Management:

Press Win + R, type tpm.msc, and press Enter.

Verify TPM Version:

If the TPM Management window opens, look for “TPM Manufacturer Information” to find the TPM version. Windows 11 requires TPM version 2.0.

Check Graphics Card

Return to DXDiag and look under the Display tab to view your graphics card details. Ensure it supports DirectX 12 and WDDM 2.0.

Check Display

Ensure your screen meets the minimum size and resolution specifications (HD 720p with a diagonal size of 9 inches or more).

Method 3: Using CPU-Z

Download and Install CPU-Z:

Visit the official CPU-Z website and download the software.

Check Instruction Set:

Open CPU-Z and look for “SSE4.2” for Intel processors or “SSE4A” for AMD processors in the instruction set section.

Professional Perspective

Checking CPU compatibility with Windows 11 is crucial to ensure a smooth upgrade experience. The PC Health Check Tool is the most straightforward method, providing a quick and accurate assessment of your system’s compatibility. For users who prefer a more hands-on approach, the manual compatibility check offers detailed insights into each hardware component. Additionally, CPU-Z is a reliable tool for verifying the instruction set supported by your processor.

As a professional, I recommend starting with the PC Health Check Tool due to its ease of use and comprehensive results. If you need more detailed information, the manual check and CPU-Z provide valuable insights. Always ensure your system meets all the minimum requirements, including TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, to avoid potential issues during the upgrade process.