How to install Windows 11 on an old PC: Complete guide

Last update: 03/02/2025
Author Alberto navarro

  • There are different methods to install Windows 11 on PCs that do not meet the requirements.
  • Tools like Rufus and EaseUS make the process easier by removing restrictions.
  • Modifying the Windows registry can help bypass TPM and RAM limitations.
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With the release of Windows 11, Many users of older computers have wondered if it is possible to install the new operating system on machines that do not meet the official minimum requirements. Fortunately, not all is lost and there are several methods to achieve this, although always under the consideration that there will be no official supportIf you're looking to give your PC a second life, you don't need to give up so quickly. In this article, we'll explore How to install Windows 11 on an old computer.

Basic requirements and limitations for installing Windows 11

Windows 11

From system modifications to third-party tools, the options are varied, but it is crucial to consider the limitations and possible risks. Therefore, before embarking on the installation process, It is essential to understand the minimum requirements that Microsoft requires for Windows 11. They stand out from them:

  • Processor: 64-bit CPU with at least 1 GHz speed and two cores.
  • RAM: 4GB minimum, although certain advanced features require 8GB.
  • Storage: At least 64 GB of free space.
  • TPM 2.0: This security module is crucial, although there are ways to bypass this restriction.
  • UEFI Firmware: Supports secure boot.
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If your PC meets these requirements, you can perform the installation officially. If not, there are methods to get around these limitations.

Method 1: Modifying the Windows Registry

This PC can't run Windows 11

One of the most common methods To avoid TPM 2.0 restrictions and secure boot is to perform a modification in the Windows Registry during the installation process.

  1. The Windows 11 installation process begins. If the message “This PC can't run Windows 11", do Click the “Back” button inside the wizard.
  2. Press Shift + F10 to open a command prompt window.
  3. Write regedit and press “Enter” to open the Registry Editor.
  4. Navigate to route: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE \ SYSTEM \ Setup.
  5. Create a new key called LabConfig and inside it, add three DWORD (32-bit) values ​​with the following names and values:
    • BypassTPMCheck: 1
    • BypassRAMCheck: 1
    • BypassSecureBootCheck: 1
  6. Restart the installation from the wizard and this time it should continue without errors.
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Method 2: Using tools like Rufus or EaseUS

EaseUS

There are tools that make it easier to install Windows 11 on non-compatible PCs. One of them is Rufus, which allows you to create a bootable USB drive by removing hardware restrictions.

Steps to use Rufus:

  • Download the tool from your official page.
  • Load the Windows 11 Official ISO Image.
  • Select the option to Disable TPM and RAM requirements.
  • Proceed to create the USB and perform the installation from the bootable drive.

Alternatively EaseUS Win11builder, which also allows the bypass of restrictions and has a simple interface to download ISO files and configure USB drives for direct installation.

Method 3: Add commands to the start of the installer

Run specific commands to bypass Windows 11 requirements

This method, recently discovered, consists of executing specific commands to bypass the requirements during the initial setup of Windows 11. To do this:

  1. Open the command prompt as administrator.
  2. Type the following command: setup /product server.
  3. The installer will recognize the system as a server and will not perform hardware checks.

This trick has gained popularity among users with older computers, as it is a fast and effective method.

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Precautions when installing Windows 11 on unsupported computers

Although the methods mentioned are effective, you should keep in mind some Important points:

  • Performance: On older computers, the system may not perform optimally.
  • Updates: Microsoft does not guarantee that you will receive security or system updates.
  • Warranty: Installing Windows 11 on an unsupported computer may void your manufacturer's warranty.

Alternatives for PCs that don't support Windows 11

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If after performing all these steps your computer still does not offer adequate performance, consider options such as:

  • Continue using Windows 10, which will be supported until October 2025.
  • Opt for Linux distributions, less demanding and very functional.

Upgrading your hardware is also a possibility, especially if you plan to use modern, resource-intensive programs.

Installing Windows 11 on an older computer can be a rewarding experience if you need to take advantage of the operating system's new features. From workarounds like registry tweaks to third-party tools, the options are varied. However, it is It is necessary to take precautions and evaluate whether it is really worth it. or whether a more conservative solution is more viable.