Is your PC not compatible with Windows 11? Here are some alternative options! – Poc Network

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Today’s Tech News and Reviews
As you likely have heard or noticed yourself, many systems aren’t making the cut trying to upgrade to the new Windows 11 operating system. The OS has some pretty strict requirements and is one of the first that Microsoft has released in a long time that supports a limited range of hardware. Thankfully, if you fall under this experience, there are some alternative options.
So why is Windows 11 so strict about what it supports? Security! Well, that’s what Microsoft is hoping for at least. The company is trying to make the new OS one of the most secure options out there (keyword is “try”). with all of ransomware and malware issues afflicting users around the world, Microsoft wanted to strike back by pressuring people to upgrade to more secure software (which allows the OS to become more secure). The verdict is still in on how effective this move will be.
If you aren’t looking to upgrade your hardware and plan to stick with what you have, you do have options. After all, if it ain’t broke (…). So we’ll break down some easy options to keep your system alive and updated with the latest in security patches.
This absolutely falls under the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” rules. Between the two operating systems, if you are comfortable with Windows 10, then there isn’t much reason to upgrade to 11. Personally, most of us prefer Windows 10’s interface to 11 any day. The biggest benefit (in our opinion) is the support for Android apps and that is still deep within the beta stages (with a depressing selection of apps to choose from).
So, stick with Windows 10! Microsoft will continue to support it until October 2025, which gives you almost four more years to enjoy it before it stops supporting it with updates. Therefore you have plenty of time before you have to worry yourself with any upgrades.
If you want to get rid of Windows 10 or need a place to go when 2025 rolls around, Chrome OS offers users a path toward something fresh that will continue to get updates. Google just recently rolled out a normal installation method to install Chrome OS on any PC or Mac system (it used to be limited to Chromebook systems).
This is a great way to breathe life back into some of the older systems without slowing them down any with bloated interfaces designed for newer hardware specs. Allowing you to squeeze additional years out of your hardware.
Chrome OS does come with a catch though. The operating system isn’t as complex as Windows, so you may find yourself limited on supported software. It’s best to consider this OS like a step up from using a tablet. Consider an Android device with a desktop environment instead of your typical mobile screen. Great for simple tasks, internet, office apps, and checking your mail. However, not so good with gaming, advanced applications, or certain other deep features you’d typically find within a full OS like Windows or Mac.
This is always an option for those looking to get away from Windows. However, if you aren’t a deeply tech-savvy person, you want to refrain from this option. Don’t give in to the Linux fanboys that claim that Linux is far better than Windows and everyone should switch over to it. Linux is absolutely a niche operating system. It is indeed a fantastic option to switch to, but only if you know what you are doing. You’ll be spending a lot of time typing commands into terminal windows and approaching everything from a completely different view.
You’ll be learning how to install features and applications via those terminal windows, and learning how to work with alternative installation methods like Docker. In other words, you need to be a dedicated nerd in order to make the switch. If this isn’t you, then stay far away from Linux.
If this is you, then absolutely consider giving Linux a try. Especially, if you want to turn your non-Windows-11-supporting hardware into some kind of a powerful server. Let it be for managing your own DNS solutions, home automation, web server, media server, or any of the many other things you can efficiently accomplish with Linux.
Just make sure to read up on Linux deeply if you haven’t made the attempt before. There will still be some learning curves to get around. Linux beginners might also want to try something friendly like Ubuntu as the distro of choice (a powerful option with a great desktop interface).
If you don’t want to stick with Windows 11 or if you plan to stick with Windows after the October 2025 EOL (end of life) for Windows 10, don’t want to limit yourself with Chrome OS, and don’t want to overwhelm yourself with Linux–then you’ll sadly have no choice but to upgrade your hardware. Microsoft is standing its ground about its security/hardware requirements.
For example, if you are rocking an Intel processor, you’ll want to make sure you have an 8th Gen at the least or newer. Unlike the i7-6700K that is seen pictured in the top image being declined by Microsoft’s PC Health Check app (that determines if your system will support Windows 11 or not). The 6700K is still a fantastic processor. It just lacks the security requirements to live up to the security expectations that come with Windows 11. Therefore, that system will eventually be repurposed as a Linux box when the time comes (October 2025).
Senior Editor, Author, Reviewer and Designer for Poc Network, ProAudio and Mobile Nations. James enjoys spending most of his time as an audio engineer and technician for the live music industry when he isn’t running around the office here juggling an intense workload. He can also be found frequently in the nearby mountainous ranges, scrambling rocks and rappelling down large sections.
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