Windows 11 is the latest operating system from Microsoft, and while installing from scratch or via upgrade is quite accessible, sometimes users may face barriers such as hardware requirements, especially TPM 2.0. This article will help you explore the different methods to download the ISO file and how to install it on your device, whether it meets the official requirements or not. We will provide you with all the proven alternatives to perform this process, ensuring that you follow the most suitable procedure for your needs.
This tutorial will not only guide you step-by-step in downloading the ISO file from official sources, but will also explain other ways to get it, including how to remove the TPM 2.0 limitation for those devices that do not meet the minimum requirements. We will go over the legal methods and alternative options in detail, as well as provide you with reliable links for this process.
Requirements to download and install Windows 11
Although Microsoft is offering Windows 11 for free download, it is important to keep in mind the system requirements before proceeding. To officially install Windows 11, the following requirements must be met:
- Processor: Minimum of 1 GHz with two or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC).
- RAM: At least 4GB.
- Storage: A minimum of 64 GB free on your device.
- TPM 2.0: A Trusted Platform Module.
- System Firmware: UEFI, capable of secure boot.
- Graphics: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later, with a WDDM 2.0 driver.
- Display: 720p and a larger diagonal size of 9”.
These requirements can be strict, especially with the inclusion of TPM 2.0, which has generated debates and difficulties for many users who want to upgrade from Windows 10. However, there are alternatives for those systems that do not meet these requirements, and we explain them below.
- Safe download of the official Windows 11 ISO from the Microsoft website.
- Removing TPM 2.0 requirements using tools like Rufus.
- Prepare your PC and avoid problems during Windows 11 installation.
Download the official ISO from the Microsoft website
The safest and most recommended method to obtain a Windows 11 ISO image is to do so directly from the official Microsoft download page. From there, you can access the free download of the Media Creation Tool, which will allow you to create an ISO file or an installation USB and then start the clean installation of Windows 11 on your PC.
Follow these simple steps to download the ISO from Microsoft:
- Step 1: Go to the official website of Microsoft downloads.
- Step 2: In the Windows 11 section, select 'Download disk image (ISO)'.
- Step 3: Choose your preferred language and edition of Windows 11.
- Step 4: Confirm the download and select the download option for 64-bit architecture.
Once downloaded, you can use tools like Rufus or Windows' own media creation tool to create a bootable USB device that will allow you to install Windows 11 from scratch.
Alternative methods to download the ISO removing TPM 2.0 requirements
One of the main barriers that users encounter when trying to install Windows 11 is the requirement of the TPM 2.0, especially on older devices. Fortunately, there are methods that allow you to overcome this limitation without compromising the legality of the download:
Using Rufus to create a bootable USB by removing the TPM restriction
Rufus Rufus is a widely used tool for downloading ISO images and creating bootable USB devices. The best thing about Rufus is that it allows you to customize images by removing restrictions such as TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, or even RAM requirements. Follow these steps to do so:
- Step 1: Download and install Rufus from your official website.
- Step 2: Insert an empty USB flash drive with at least 8 GB capacity.
- Step 3: In Rufus, select the 'Download' option instead of 'Select' to download the Windows 11 ISO.
- Step 4: Before you start downloading and creating the USB, check the options to remove the TPM 2.0 requirement.
This way, you can create a Windows 11 installer that will not require these components during the installation process.
Using MediaCreationTool to remove hardware requirements
Another alternative for those who cannot use Rufus is to use the script MediaCreationTool. bat, which is available on GitHub. This is an open source script that will allow you to download the Windows 11 ISO officially and then modify it so that it does not check the requirements of the TPM 2.0 or secure boot:
- Step 1: Download the MediaCreationTool script from its GitHub page. Look for the 'Download ZIP' button.
- Step 2: Unzip the file and run the script with administrator permissions.
- Step 3: Select the version of Windows 11 you want to download (you can choose the latest one).
- Step 4: Once the download is complete, proceed to modify the installer boot file to remove the TPM requirements.
This way, you will get a fully functional ISO image without hardware restrictions, ready to be installed on any PC.
Installing Windows 11 from an ISO on devices without TPM
If you have already downloaded a modified ISO image and created an installation USB, the next step is to continue with the installation process. This is where the modifications you made in the previous steps will allow your device to bypass certain checks, such as the TPM 2.0.
To get started, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Connect the bootable USB to your computer.
- Step 2: Reboot the device and enter the boot menu (usually by pressing F2, F12, or Del).
- Step 3: Select the 'Install Windows 11' option on the installer start screen.
- Step 4: Follow the installation wizard by selecting your language and format preferences.
Your computer will probably allow you to continue the process without any problems, since the restrictions of the TPM and others have been eliminated.
The installation may take a few minutes, and it is important to make sure that you do not turn off your computer during this process. Once the installation is complete, simply follow the on-screen instructions to set up your new operating system.
How to prepare your PC before installation
Before proceeding with the installation or even downloading the Windows 11 ISO, it is crucial to prepare your device properly to avoid any issues during the process. Here are some steps to follow:
Free up space: Windows 11 requires around 64 GB of free storage, although it is recommended to free up more space, approximately between 15 and 20 GB additional, so that you do not find yourself running out of space during installation or after downloading the ISO image.
- Close Concurrent Applications: It is recommended to close all applications that are consuming your internet bandwidth to avoid intermittent downloads or errors during the ISO download.
- Stable Connection: If possible, use an ethernet wired connection instead of Wi-Fi to maximize stability during downloading.
- Disconnect unnecessary peripherals: Some additional devices connected during installation may cause compatibility issues.
Precautions before handling ISO images
Avoid unreliable sources: One of the most common mistakes when trying to install Windows from an unofficial source is to encounter ISO files that have been modified in an unsafe way with hidden malware or viruses. Therefore, it is essential to download the ISO from the official website or from sources of absolute reputability to avoid long-term damage to your computer.
Don't forget to always do backup of your most important files before making any changes.
Remember, although it is possible to avoid the requirements of TPM y Secure Boot, the lack of these components could mean reduced future stability or security when using Windows 11.
By following these tips, you can ensure that the Windows 11 installation process goes smoothly and effectively, as well as ensuring that your data and hardware remain secure at all times.
I am a technology enthusiast who has turned his "geek" interests into a profession. I have spent more than 10 years of my life using cutting-edge technology and tinkering with all kinds of programs out of pure curiosity. Now I have specialized in computer technology and video games. This is because for more than 5 years I have been writing for various websites on technology and video games, creating articles that seek to give you the information you need in a language that is understandable to everyone.
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