Fixing the Error: This PC Can't Run Windows 11

Microsoft has officially introduced Windows 11 and announced the system requirements for installing Windows 11 for users to check if their computer qualifies for upgrading to Windows 11. However, many encounter the error 'This PC Can't Run Windows 11' when using the PC Health Check tool released by Microsoft, or during the Windows 11 installation process, even though the hardware is fully compatible with this new generation Windows operating system. So, what are the reasons behind it, and how can you troubleshoot the issue of being unable to install Windows 11 on your computer?

Learn more: Windows 11 Errors

Resolving the Error: This PC Can't Run Windows 11

I - Windows 11 Installation Configuration

Firstly, let's take a look at the Windows 11 installation configuration requirements announced by Microsoft:

- CPU: Minimum 2 cores clocked at 1GHz 64-bit.
- RAM: At least 4GB.
- Storage: Minimum 64GB.
- Display: 9-inch with a resolution of 1366 x 768.
- System Software: UEFI with Secure Boot capability.
- TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0
- Direct X: Direct X12/WWDM 2.x.

You may notice that the Windows 10 installation configuration requirements include the presence of TPM 2.0 chip on the motherboard and BIOS setup needing to be activated as Secure Boot. If your computer meets the CPU, RAM, or storage requirements but still encounters the 'This PC Can't Run Windows 11' error, it's possible that TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot on your computer are not enabled, which is the root cause of the issue. However, for a more accurate check, you can install the Windows 11 trial version through the Windows Insider Program.

Learn more: How to download Windows 11 via Windows Insider Program

II - What are Secure Boot and TPM?

So, now we know the culprit behind the 'This PC Can't Run Windows 11' error, and before you proceed to enable TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, you should also understand what they are.

Secure Boot is a security feature in UEFI. When activated, it prevents malicious software and counterfeit bootloaders when you start your computer. Meanwhile, TPM (short for 'Trusted Platform Module') enhances security by providing data encryption through a special chip inside your computer. Most computers released after 2016 have TPM 2.0 chips, which are necessary to run Windows 11. If you're using older models produced before 2016 but still want to upgrade to Win 11, you can refer to the guide in the article below.

Learn more: How to install Windows 11 on old computers

III - How to Fix the 'This PC Can't Run Windows 11' Error

1. How to Enable Secure Boot in BIOS for Windows 11 Installation

Follow the steps below to enable Secure Boot:

Step 1: Restart your computer and access BIOS Setup using keys like F1, F2, F10, F12, ESC, DEL or other specific keys depending on your computer model.
Step 2: In the BIOS Setup screen, select the Advanced tab from the various tabs listed here.
Step 3: Next, choose Boot Options from the list.
Step 4: Now, you'll see a range of different boot options. Find the Secure Boot option and checkmark it.
Step 5: Finally, click on Save to apply the new BIOS settings.

2. How to Activate TPM 2.0 for Windows 11 Installation

Before enabling TPM 2.0 in BIOS, you first need to verify its current status in the system with the following steps:

Step 1: Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
Step 2: In the Run dialog, type tpm.msc and click OK.

Step 3: In the TPM Management on Local Computer window, check the Status entry. If it says TPM is ready to use, then TPM is already enabled. You can also verify the TPM chip version in the TPM Manufacturer Information section.

However, if the status is Compatible TPM cannot be found, it means you'll need to activate it.

To enable TPM 2.0, follow the instructions below:

Step 1: Restart your computer and access BIOS setup using keys like F1, F2, F10, F12, ESC, DEL or other specific keys depending on your computer model.
Step 2: Next, navigate to the Security tab from the listed tabs here.
Step 3: Then, locate TPM device, click on the adjacent option, and select Available from the list.
Step 4: Finally, click on Save to apply the changes and restart your computer.

Note: Different computer models have different BIOS layouts, as well as different ways to access BIOS and Boot Options. You can refer to the article below:

Check now: Shortcut keys for Boot Options and BIOS

After activating TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, check again if your PC is compatible with Windows 11 using the PC Health Check tool, or proceed with installing Win 11 and see if the error persists. You can refer to the guide below on how to create a Windows 11 installation USB.

Check now: How to create a Windows 11 installation USB