Recent updates to the Windows 11 support document reveal that PCs not meeting the minimum requirements will display a new watermark and receive notifications within the Settings app.

Despite the push to upgrade, the document controversially suggests that users downgrade to Windows 10, even as Microsoft plans to end support for Windows 10 in October 2025.

The company has also warned that unsupported PCs may not receive critical updates, which could pose security risks.

If users attempt to install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware, they will encounter a warning stating, “This PC doesn’t meet the minimum system requirements for running Windows 11.”

The message emphasizes that installing the OS on such a machine is not recommended and could lead to compatibility issues, lack of support, and potential damage not covered under warranty.

While Windows 11, launched in 2021, has faced criticism for its stringent hardware requirements and changes to the user interface, many users have opted to remain on Windows 10.

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The lack of a straightforward upgrade path for older systems has frustrated consumers, particularly as TPM 2.0 chips have only recently become standard in new motherboards.

Microsoft’s strategy of using notifications and watermarks is seen as an attempt to compel users to upgrade, but it raises concerns about user experience and the handling of older, capable PCs that do not meet the new requirements.