We remain skeptical about what advantages you’ll gain from switching to Windows 11, but we now know the minimum specs Microsoft will require for you to upgrade. A lot of what we see talks more about the look and feel of the new operating system – not as much about speed or increased processing power. Will your computer be in or out?
The rollout is expected to begin later this year. The minimum specs required for Windows 11 are:
- 1GHz processor with two or more cores
- 64-bit compatible
- 4GB RAM
- 64GB storage
- GPU compatible with DirectX 12
- UEFI, Secure Boot capable system firmware
- TPM version 2.0
- 720p or greater display
- Internet connection
You can see the detailed hardware requirements for Windows 11. If your computer doesn’t meet the specs, don’t worry – Windows 10 will continue to receive support until October 14, 2025. If your computer doesn’t make the grade for the new OS – and you really want to have it – you’ll need to upgrade your computer. If your first instinct is just to replace your processor, it’s an impractical idea. The processor is on your computer’s motherboard, which is the heart of the device. The motherboard is loaded with so much stuff, and the manufacturers have essentially made it replacement-proof.
In all likelihood, users with computers that are eligible for the Windows 11 upgrade will make the change, and it will be like the benefits they saw when moving from Windows 7 to Windows 8. It changed the look and feel of Windows with very little effect on function. Some of the “look and feel” changes we’ve seen have us curious.
For example, we’ve heard about a “Mac-like” interface, and that makes us wonder where Microsoft is heading. Almost all application software is now run from the cloud, and you don’t even need a computer to run apps such as the entire Office suite. Any device that connects to the internet has an Office app or a separate app for Word, Excel or PowerPoint, enabling a user to download the file and work on it to some extent. On my last trip, I left my computers home and did everything I needed from an iPad.
In our opinion, look and feel are not compelling reasons to upgrade Windows. Compelling reasons would include security features, better integration for businesses with remote users who are still using Office 2016 and need the newer features, and anyone whose hardware won’t be compatible with Windows 10.
And, of course, if you are forced to buy a new computer and upgrade to Windows 11, you’ll find a shortage of computers because we’re still dealing with the chip shortage for all products with electronic components.
We’ll keep tabs on the Windows 11 deployment, and we’ll be ready to help you once you learn about the upgradable status of your technology and determine if you need to make the change. Call us – 973-433-6676 – or email us if you have any questions or need to take action.