"Why will this processor Processor Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-7700T CPU @ 2.90GHz, 2904 Mhz, 4 Core(s), 8 Logical Processor(s) not be able to run windows 11? WINDOWS"

I was just searching to find out why I would not be upgraded to Windows 11. I have a 6th Gen Intel I7-6600 running at 2.6 Ghz which was quite a high end cpu when I bought my laptop, which is perfectly fine for my needs - and in fact recently spent a bit adding storage.

I will investigate the workarounds.

What I find galling is the advice to upgrade cpu (not easy in laptop) - or buy a new laptop - in these times when we are supposed to be keeping things running for as long as possible to fight climate change - being told to replace perfectly good hardware is a very disapointing answer.

Hi,

Just so you know... You're machine is perfectly capable of running Windows 11 even though it does not meet the compatibility requirements..

The compatibility issue is basically just a question at the start of installation..

If the answer is yes, Windows installs.. If the answer is no, it will not..

There is nothing about Windows 11 that your machine can not handle except for the correct answer to the question..

A search online will provide workarounds to avoiding the questions ever being asked in the first place..

The method is different for a Clean Install and a Upgrade Install, but both work..

I would provide the method, but do not want to risk being barred from the Forum..

I should note that I have a machine far older than your's running Windows 11 perfectly...

I am currently typing this on another 3rd generation machine running perfectly so far..

It is up to you if you wish to risk any of the workarounds, and I would suggest saving a backup image of your installation should you decide to give it a try..

John,

First thank you for your response. I appreciate your response.

I am very disappointed with Microsoft at this time.  I feel like I have a very high end device, that should be able to handle changes,

however as you stated One must have a minimal 8^th^ generation Processor installed, with no change in the final specs expected.

I probably will continue to use WIN 10 until unable to do so.

Again,

Thanks

John Schwarz

>I think there is a hidden Secrets that few security feature is not available in many 7th gen processors.

That's correct. Microsoft has not been very forthcoming with details about the specific CPU command set and features it's requiring. The article below, though somewhat speculative, has the best information I've seen to date about this.

Why Windows 11 has such strict hardware requirements, according to Microsoft https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2021/08/why-windows-11-has-such-strict-hardware-requirements-according-to-microsoft/

Hello JohnSchwarz3,

Good day! I'm John and I'll be happy to assist you today. I know this has been difficult for you, Rest assured, I'm going to do my best to help you.

The minimum system requirements for Windows 11 is at least 8th Gen processors (except for very few 7th Gen processors). This is to meet Microsoft principles about security and reliability.

https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2021/...

I'm sorry, i7-7700T is not on the list of Windows 11 supported Intel processors.

https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-hardwa...

With the release of Windows 11, the minimum requirements to upgrade are final. I recommend reaching out to your Original Equipment Manufacturer as they will be able to provide you with information regarding any options you may have for upgrading your device's current processor or you may consider purchasing a new device.

You may also need to consider using Windows 10 as it continues to be a great version of Windows. Microsoft is committed to supporting Windows 10 through October 14, 2025.

Kindly let me know if this helps or if you have any further concerns.

Kind regards,

John DeV

Independent Advisor