Encountering the 'This PC Can't Run Windows 11' error is one of the most common frustrations for users trying to upgrade their operating system. This usually happens because Windows 11 requires two specific security features: TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to enable these settings in your BIOS or bypass them if your hardware is slightly older.

Step 1: Run the PC Health Check App

Before changing any settings, verify exactly what is causing the incompatibility. Download and run the official Microsoft PC Health Check app. Click on the 'Check Now' button. It will provide a detailed report showing if the issue is TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, or hardware like Processor Compatibility.

Step 2: Enable TPM 2.0 in BIOS/UEFI

The Trusted Platform Module (TPM) is a security chip required for Windows 11. Most modern PCs have it, but it is often disabled by default. To enable it:

• Restart your computer and tap the F2, F10, F12, or Del key repeatedly to enter the BIOS/UEFI menu.
• Navigate to the Security or Advanced tab.
• Look for a setting named TPM State, Intel PTT (Platform Trust Technology), or AMD FTPM.
• Change the setting to Enabled or Available.
• Save and Exit (usually F10).

Step 3: Enable Secure Boot

Secure Boot ensures that your PC boots using only software that is trusted by the PC manufacturer. Windows 11 requires this feature to be active.

• Enter your BIOS/UEFI menu again.
• Look for the Boot or Security tab.
• Locate the Secure Boot option.
• Toggle the setting to Enabled. Note: If the option is greyed out, you may need to set a BIOS supervisor password or change the Boot Mode from Legacy to UEFI.
• Save your changes and restart.

Step 4: Bypass TPM 2.0 Requirements (For Unsupported Hardware)

If your CPU is older and does not support TPM 2.0, you can use a Registry Hack to bypass the check during the installation process. Warning: This is only recommended for advanced users as it may lead to stability issues.

• Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
• Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\Setup\MoSetup.
• Right-click in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
• Name it AllowUpgradesWithUnsupportedTPMOrCPU.
• Double-click it and set the Value Data to 1.
• Restart your PC and attempt the installation again.

Conclusion

By enabling TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, most users can resolve the compatibility error immediately. If you are using the Registry bypass, ensure you have a full backup of your data, as Microsoft does not officially support Windows 11 on hardware that fails these checks.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep your software updated to avoid these issues in the future.