Windows 11: Release Date, Requirements and Everything You Need to Know

Microsoft's next-generation desktop operating system, Windows 11, has arrived. Here is everything you need to know.

Release date

Windows 11 was officially released on 5 October 2021. The initial rollout prioritised new pre-installed systems, with existing Windows 10 users receiving the free upgrade in the months that followed.

Windows Insider preview

If you are registered as a Windows Insider, you can access preview builds through the Dev or Beta channels, even if your hardware does not meet all the official system requirements.

To sign up for Windows Insider or change your channel, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Insider Programme.

Free upgrade from Windows 10

Windows 11 is a free upgrade for anyone running a licensed copy of Windows 10 with compatible hardware. If you have not yet activated your copy of Windows 10, doing so now ensures you qualify for the free upgrade.

System requirements

The minimum system requirements for Windows 11 are notably higher than those of Windows 10:

• CPU: 1 GHz or faster, dual-core, 64-bit processor
• 4 GB RAM
• 64 GB storage
• UEFI BIOS with Secure Boot
• TPM 2.0
• 9-inch or larger display with 720p resolution
• Internet connection and a Microsoft account
• GPU with DirectX 12 support

The TPM 2.0 requirement is the most significant hurdle. Not all motherboards include a TPM module, though many have it disabled by default and it can be enabled in BIOS settings.

CPU compatibility

Even computers with TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot may face compatibility issues if they use processors older than an Intel 8th Gen Core or AMD Ryzen 2000 Series. Microsoft has published compatibility lists for both Intel and AMD CPUs.

Both Intel's 7th generation and AMD's Ryzen 1000 series, released in 2017, were initially excluded from the supported list. Microsoft has since tested some of these older processors and expanded the compatibility list over time.

New Start menu

The new Start menu appears in the centre of the screen by default (though it can be moved to the left). Live tiles have been replaced by simple, colourful icons. According to Microsoft, the menu leverages the cloud to recommend apps and documents based on recent activity across devices.

Windows 11 also features a redesigned search function displayed in a separate window, which searches across devices, services and the web via Bing.

Our verdict

Windows 11 brings a refreshed design, improved productivity features and enhanced security. If your hardware meets the requirements, the upgrade from Windows 10 is straightforward and free.

For those looking to prepare, now is an excellent time to activate Windows 10 Pro at a competitive price and secure your free upgrade path. You can also explore our full range of Windows licences.

For a comparison between editions, read our guide on Windows 11 Pro vs Home or learn how to download Windows 11.

If you have any questions, leave a comment or give us a call.

Best regards,
The Licendi Team