How to Check if Your PC Can Run Windows 11

Windows 10 support ends on 14 October 2025. After that date, Microsoft will no longer provide free software updates, technical assistance or security fixes for Windows 10. Your PC will still work but without security updates it will be more vulnerable to cyber threats and software compatibility issues.

If you want to understand what this upgrade means for your business and why we recommend acting early, read our article on the Windows 10 End of Life and PC shortage.

The good news is that some devices can be upgraded to Windows 11 without needing replacement, but only if they meet Microsoft’s hardware requirements.

The easiest way to find out is by using Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool. Follow the steps below to check your device.

Step 1: Download the PC Health Check Tool

• Download Microsoft’s official PC Health Check Tool.

• This will automatically download the installer file to your computer in your Downloads folder.

Step 2: Install the Tool

• Double-click the downloaded file to start the installation.

• Follow the prompts to install the application.

Note: If you are using a device where you do not have admin rights, you may not be able to install the tool.

In this case, the best approach is to confirm which members of your team have administrative access, or reach out via our support portal and we can run the checks on your behalf.

Step 3: Open the PC Health Check Tool

• Right-click the Start menu and select Search.

• In the search box, type "pc health check".

• Under Best match, select PC Health Check from the list of results.

Step 4: Run the Windows 11 Compatibility Check

• In the PC Health Check window, click Check now under the Windows 11 section.

• Wait for the tool to analyse your system. This only takes a few seconds.

Step 5: Review the Results

The tool will display one of the following:

• This PC can run Windows 11 = Your device meets all requirements for the upgrade.

IMPORTANT: Even if your device meets the requirements, older specifications may still struggle with performance, particularly systems with a CPU below 10th Gen, less than 8GB of RAM, or without an SSD.

If you are unsure about your current setup or concerned about how it will handle Windows 11, get in touch with our team to discuss the best next steps and find the most cost-effective solution for your business.

• This PC does not currently meet Windows 11 system requirements = Your device is missing one or more required components such as TPM 2.0, Secure Boot or processor type.

Step 6: Understand Your Next Steps

• If your device is compatible, you can plan your Windows 11 upgrade before the Windows 10 deadline.

• If your device is not compatible, you will need to plan for a replacement.
  
  In some cases firmware updates or hardware changes might make it eligible but often replacement is the best long-term option.

IMPORTANT: If you recently made changes to your device’s hardware such as upgrading the processor, RAM it can take up to 24 hours for Windows Update to refresh the eligibility information.

If you are unsure about the results or what they mean for your business, we can help.

Our team can run the check for you, explain the results and advise on whether you should upgrade or replace your device.

Simply get in touch with our support team and we can guide you through the steps.

Why is Upgrading Important?

Windows 10 will officially reach End of Life on 14 October 2025.

After this date, it will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes or technical support, leaving any devices still running it more vulnerable to cyber threats and could be at risk of falling out of compliance with standards like Cyber Essentials, GDPR, or even insurance agreements. You may also face software compatibility issues and on-going operational disruptions.

Upgrading to Windows 11 ensures your business stays secure, compliant and compatible with the latest tools and technologies.

Read our full article on the Windows 10 End of Life and why you should plan your upgrade now for a complete breakdown of the risks, your options and how to prepare.

Read the Article: Windows 10 End of Life: Key Information & Advice >