Windows 11 Hardware Requirements Not Met
What This Error Means
Windows 11 refused activation because your hardware does not meet the minimum requirements — most commonly TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, or a supported CPU generation. This error appears during in-place upgrades and clean installs alike.
It is separate from licensing: even a valid key cannot activate Windows 11 on hardware Microsoft classifies as incompatible, unless you use official workaround builds or stay on Windows 10.
How to Fix It
- Check TPM: Win+R → tpm.msc — ensure TPM 2.0 is present and enabled in BIOS.
- Enable Secure Boot in UEFI/BIOS settings.
- Verify CPU compatibility on Microsoft's Windows 11 supported processors list.
- Use the PC Health Check app to identify which requirement fails.
- If hardware cannot be upgraded, consider staying on Windows 10 (supported until October 2025 for Home/Pro) or purchasing a compatible device.