With Windows 11’s release, many users are excited to upgrade and take advantage of its sleek interface and new features. However, some PCs won’t meet the system requirements due to factors like an older processor or the lack of TPM 2.0. If you’ve run the compatibility check and your system doesn’t make the cut, don’t worry—there are several paths you can take to ensure your device remains useful and up-to-date.
Here are five options to consider, along with the cybersecurity issues each may cause:
1. Upgrade Your Hardware
Upgrading your PC’s hardware to meet Windows 11’s requirements is a proactive approach to ensure your system remains secure. Windows 11 introduces advanced security features like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, which provide enhanced protection against modern cyber threats.
Cybersecurity Benefits:
- Upgrading to meet Windows 11 standards ensures that you’re taking advantage of these advanced security features.
- Protects your device against common attack vectors such as firmware-level attacks and ransomware.
Cybersecurity Risks:
- If you attempt DIY upgrades without proper knowledge, there’s a risk of mis-configuring your system, leaving vulnerabilities in place.
- Failure to update all relevant components, like the motherboard or BIOS, could result in partial protection, creating gaps that hackers can exploit.
2. Stick With Windows 10
Windows 10 is still a highly capable and secure operating system, and it will continue receiving security updates until October 2025. However, sticking with Windows 10 for the long term could leave you more vulnerable over time as newer security features in Windows 11 become the industry standard.
Cybersecurity Benefits:
- Continued security updates and patches will be available until support ends in 2025.
- Familiar environment means fewer immediate risks for businesses.
Cybersecurity Risks:
- Over time, as cyber threats become more advanced, Windows 10 may struggle to provide adequate protection.
- After support ends, the lack of updates leaves your system exposed to emerging vulnerabilities, increasing the risk of cyberattacks and data breaches.
3. Buy a New PC
Purchasing a new PC that meets or exceeds Windows 11’s system requirements is the safest route from a cybersecurity standpoint. You’ll have access to the most up-to-date hardware and software security features, ensuring your system is protected against the latest threats.
Cybersecurity Benefits:
- Windows 11 comes with built-in protections like Virtualization-Based Security (VBS), Windows Hello for secure authentication, and Credential Guard to protect sensitive information.
- A new machine ensures you have full hardware support for these security enhancements, keeping your business data safer.
Cybersecurity Risks:
- Transitioning to a new machine could result in human error, such as improperly transferring or securing sensitive data during the migration.
- If your new PC is not properly configured or if antivirus software and firewalls are neglected, even new systems can be vulnerable.
4. Install Windows 11 Using the ‘Bypass’ Method
While it’s possible to bypass certain Windows 11 hardware requirements to install it on an unsupported system, this is risky, especially from a cybersecurity perspective. Unsupported installations won’t receive crucial security updates, which could leave your system highly vulnerable to threats.
Cybersecurity Benefits:
- You get access to some of Windows 11’s new features, but security benefits are significantly reduced due to the lack of official support.
Cybersecurity Risks:
- No security updates: Unsupported systems won’t receive official updates or patches, leaving them vulnerable to malware, ransomware, and data breaches.
- Increased attack surface: Unsupported hardware may lack essential safeguards like TPM 2.0, which means your system could be more susceptible to firmware attacks or credential theft.
5. Switch to an Alternative Operating System
For those opting to switch to Linux or another alternative operating system, cybersecurity can be both a benefit and a challenge. Linux is known for being secure due to its open-source nature and robust permission structures, but moving away from the familiarity of Windows requires careful planning to avoid security pitfalls.
Cybersecurity Benefits:
- Linux is generally more secure out of the box, with fewer vulnerabilities targeted by common malware.
- The community-driven nature of Linux ensures frequent updates and a focus on privacy and security.
Cybersecurity Risks:
- User error: Linux may be unfamiliar to Windows users, increasing the likelihood of misconfigurations that could expose the system to attacks.
- Software compatibility: Some security tools and business applications may not work on Linux, leading to potential gaps in your cybersecurity defenses if replacements aren’t found.
When your PC fails the Windows 11 compatibility test, the decision on how to move forward isn’t just about performance and aesthetics—it’s also about ensuring your system remains secure in a world of increasing cyber threats. Whether you choose to upgrade hardware, stick with Windows 10, or explore other options, it’s critical to keep cybersecurity at the forefront of your decision.
If you're unsure of the best option for your setup, Diverse CTI is here to help! Whether it’s upgrading your hardware, providing guidance on operating systems, or ensuring your network is secure, our experts can provide the support you need. Contact us today at 405-840-4100 or schedule a meeting here to learn how we can keep your business running seamlessly, no matter what changes come with Windows 11.
