Microsoft has made another major change to Windows 11’s hardware requirements, tightening the eligibility criteria for the latest Windows 11 24H2 update. While the operating system has always had strict system requirements—including TPM 2.0 for security and a limited range of compatible processors—the new update raises the bar further by restricting CPU support to Intel 11th-generation and newer.
Previously, Windows 11 supported Intel processors dating back to the 8th-generation, but Microsoft’s latest revision to the compatibility list removes official support for these older chips. This means that PCs with Intel 8th-gen, 9th-gen, and 10th-gen processors—which were previously deemed compatible—may now face issues when attempting to upgrade to Windows 11 24H2.
For users with older CPUs, this change may seem alarming. However, this does not mean that all older Windows 11 installations will stop working immediately. Devices running Windows 11 22H2 or 23H2 are not subject to the new CPU restrictions, meaning they can continue receiving updates for now. But Windows 11 22H2 is already at end-of-support, and Windows 11 23H2 will follow on November 11, 2025, meaning that older CPUs will eventually lose access to security patches and feature updates.
Users can check their processor compatibility by navigating to Settings > System > About and comparing their CPU model to Microsoft’s official list. The PC Health Check tool can also provide a direct compatibility check for Windows 11 24H2.
Microsoft attributes the higher CPU requirements to the need for better processing power in Windows 11. The OS continues to evolve with more resource-intensive features, and upcoming AI-powered enhancements are likely a major factor in these increased demands. AI-based functions require stronger computing performance, and as Microsoft integrates more AI-driven capabilities into Windows 11, the hardware requirements will likely continue to rise. While this move helps future-proof Windows, it also means that many existing Windows 11 users will soon have to consider upgrading their hardware or risk falling behind in updates.