Purpose: Ensuring Smooth Multitasking and Performance

To ensure your computer can keep up with the demands of a modern workday, we perform health checks on all devices. The “CPU Core Count” check verifies that your computer’s processor (its “brain”) is capable of handling multiple tasks at once, which is essential for a smooth and productive experience.

This check confirms your device meets the minimum performance requirements for modern software and the Windows 11 operating system.

How it Works: A Team of Workers

The best way to understand a processor’s “cores” is to think of them as individual workers.

• A single-core processor is like having one person trying to answer the phone, write an email, and join a video call all at the same time. Things quickly get slow, and tasks have to wait their turn.
• A multi-core processor is like having a team of workers. One can handle the video call while another keeps your email running smoothly. With tasks split among multiple cores, your computer runs much faster and doesn’t freeze up when you’re multitasking.

Our health check simply counts how many “workers” (cores) your computer’s processor has.

What Your Results Mean

The check determines if your computer has at least two cores, which is the modern standard.

Status	What It Means	What To Do
PASS	Multi-Core Processor Detected Your computer has a modern processor with two or more cores. It is well-equipped to handle today’s multitasking demands.	No action is required. Your device meets the performance standard.
ACTION REQUIRED(Fail)	Single-Core Processor Detected Your computer has an older, single-core processor. It will struggle with modern applications and does not meet the performance requirements for Windows 11.	This cannot be fixed with a software update. A single-core processor is an outdated hardware component. Please contact the IT Help Desk immediately to schedule a device replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is this a problem now? My computer has been working.

• As software becomes more advanced—especially collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams that use video, audio, and screen sharing at the same time—the need for multitasking power has grown. A single-core processor is a significant bottleneck that leads to freezing, lag, and a poor user experience with modern tools.

Can you just add another core to my computer?

• Unfortunately, no. The number of cores is a physical, built-in feature of the processor itself and cannot be changed. The only solution is to replace the computer with one that has a modern, multi-core processor.

Is this related to the “CPU Compatibility” check?

• Yes, they are closely related. Both checks ensure your processor is modern and capable. This check focuses specifically on multitasking performance, while the compatibility check ensures the processor model has the right security features for Windows 11. A device can fail one or both of these checks.

Purpose: Ensuring Security and Future-Readiness

To keep our company’s devices secure and high-performing, we must ensure they can run the latest, most secure operating systems. The “CPU Compatibility” check verifies if your computer’s processor—its main “brain”—is approved by Microsoft to run Windows 11.

This is a critical check because Windows 11 has specific security and performance requirements that only modern processors can meet.

How the Check Works: The Official Guest List

Think of your computer’s processor (CPU) as its engine. For its newest operating system, Windows 11, Microsoft has published an official list of processors that are certified to run it securely and reliably.

Think of it as an official guest list for an important event. Only processors on that list have the modern architecture and built-in security features required to attend.

Our system performs a simple task:

1. It identifies the exact model of your computer’s processor.
2. It checks if that model is on Microsoft’s official “guest list.”

What Your Results Mean

The check will result in one of two outcomes. Below is a simple guide to understand your result and the required action.

Status	What It Means	What To Do
PASS	Modern and Supported Processor Your computer’s processor is on Microsoft’s official list for Windows 11. It meets the standard for modern security and performance.	No action is required. Your device is compatible with our current and future needs.
ACTION REQUIRED(Fail)	Unsupported Processor Your computer’s processor is not on Microsoft’s list. This means it lacks the specific hardware foundation required to run Windows 11 securely.	This cannot be fixed with a software update. An unsupported processor is a hardware limitation. Please contact the IT Help Desk immediately to arrange for a device replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

My computer works fine. Why is its processor suddenly “unsupported”?

• Your processor works perfectly for older operating systems, but Windows 11 was built with new, advanced security features that are physically built into modern CPUs. Older processors simply do not have this new technology, which is why Microsoft cannot certify them as secure for Windows 11.

Can’t you just install a new processor in my computer?

• Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. In modern laptops, the processor is a core, integrated part of the main circuit board and cannot be swapped out. The only solution is to replace the computer.

Did I do something wrong to cause this?

• Not at all. This result is based purely on the age and model of the hardware inside your computer, which was determined when the device was manufactured. This check is part of our standard process for identifying and upgrading older equipment.

Purpose: Identifying Next-Generation AI-Ready Computers

Microsoft has recently introduced a new category of computers called Copilot+ PCs. These devices are specifically designed with powerful, built-in artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities that run directly on the machine, making them significantly faster and more responsive for AI-powered tasks.

This health check determines if your computer meets the specific hardware requirements to be classified as a Copilot+ PC. This helps us plan for future software deployments and understand the capabilities of our current devices.

What is a Copilot+ PC?

Think of a standard PC as a capable tool. A Copilot+ PC is like that same tool but with a dedicated, super-fast assistant built right in. This “assistant” is a new type of processor called an NPU (Neural Processing Unit), which is designed exclusively for running AI tasks.

This specialized hardware unlocks features that are not possible on standard PCs, such as:

• Instant search: Finding anything you’ve ever seen on your PC almost instantly.
• Live translation: Translating audio from 40+ languages into English subtitles in real-time.
• Enhanced creativity: Using AI to help create images and edit photos right on your device.

How the Check Works

This check is a final summary that confirms your computer has the three essential ingredients required to be a Copilot+ PC:

1. A Powerful AI Processor (NPU): The special chip required for on-device AI.
2. Enhanced Memory (16 GB+ RAM): Enough “working space” for the system to handle demanding AI tasks smoothly.
3. Ample, Fast Storage (256 GB+): Enough file space to support the new features.

The check simply verifies if all three of these requirements are met.

What Your Results Mean

Status	What It Means	What To Do
Copilot+ Ready	Your device is a Copilot+ PC.  It has the necessary AI-focused hardware to support the next generation of advanced features as they become available.	No action is required. Your computer is ready for the future.
Standard PC (Not Copilot+ Ready)	Your device is a standard PC.  It is a fully capable and supported computer for all your current work but does not have the specialized NPU hardware for advanced, on-device AI features.	No action is required. Your computer will continue to function perfectly for all standard business tasks. When your device is due for its next scheduled technology refresh, it will likely be replaced with a Copilot+ model.

Frequently Asked Questions

My computer is not “Copilot+ Ready.” Is it obsolete?

• Not at all. Your computer is a standard, modern device that is fully supported and perfect for your day-to-day work. It simply lacks the brand-new, specialized AI processor that defines this new category of PCs.

Will I still get AI features on my standard PC?

• Yes! You will continue to benefit from cloud-based AI features in Microsoft 365, Teams, and other applications, just as you do today. The “Copilot+ PC” designation refers specifically to new features that run directly on the device itself.

Do I need to request a new computer if mine isn’t “Ready”?

• No. There is no need to take any action. Our standard technology refresh cycles will ensure that employees receive Copilot+ PCs as older devices are replaced over time.

Purpose: Ensuring Clear and Reliable Communication

In today’s workplace, clear audio is essential for productive virtual meetings, client calls, and team collaboration. The “Audio Drivers” health check ensures that the software controlling your computer’s sound is up-to-date and compatible with our business applications, like Microsoft Teams and Zoom.

This preventative scan helps avoid common audio problems—like a microphone that won’t work, robotic-sounding voices, or choppy sound—before they disrupt an important conversation.

How the Check Works

Your computer uses software called drivers to communicate with its audio hardware (speakers, microphones, headsets). Many computers also come with pre-installed audio enhancement software (from brands like Dolby, Nahimic, or Realtek) designed to make sound richer for movies or music.

Our system performs a quick scan for this software. While often harmless, outdated versions of these drivers or enhancement tools can conflict with business communication platforms. This check identifies software that is known to cause such issues.

What Your Results Mean

The check will result in one of two outcomes. Below is a simple guide to understand your result and what, if any, action is needed.

Status	What It Means	What To Do
PASS	No Compatibility Issues Found Your computer’s audio software is up-to-date and not known to cause conflicts with our standard business tools.	No action is required. Your audio system is ready to go.
WARNING	Potentially Incompatible Software Detected We found an audio driver or enhancement program that could potentially cause issues. This is very common, as this software is often pre-installed by the computer manufacturer (e.g., Dell, HP, Lenovo).	Action is recommended: The best solution is to update the software. You can usually do this by: 1. Running your computer manufacturer’s update tool (e.g., Dell Command

Frequently Asked Questions

My audio seems to be working fine. Why did I get a warning?

• This is a proactive check to prevent future problems. An outdated driver might work fine for basic tasks but could fail unexpectedly during a video conference or when you connect a new headset. We want to ensure your audio is reliable when you need it most.

Did I install something I wasn’t supposed to?

• Almost certainly not. Most of the software we check for (like Intel, Realtek, or Dolby audio tools) is installed at the factory by the computer manufacturer. This check is simply part of routine system maintenance.

What kind of problems can this outdated software cause?

• Common issues include your microphone or headset not being detected, audio cutting in and out during a Teams call, or conflicts that cause other applications to crash. Keeping it updated helps ensure a smooth experience.

If you have updated your software and continue to receive a warning, or if you need assistance, please contact the IT Help Desk.

Purpose: Maintaining a Stable and Secure System

To ensure your computer performs reliably and our company data remains secure, we run regular health checks on all devices. The “Application Compatibility” check is a general safety net designed to identify miscellaneous software that could cause system instability, create security risks, or conflict with our core business applications.

This check helps us proactively prevent issues like system crashes, slow performance, or data corruption before they impact your work.

How the Check Works

Think of this as a general wellness scan for software. While other checks look for specific threats like viruses or highly specialized software (like anti-cheat systems), this one examines other installed programs for known issues.

It flags applications that are:

• Significantly out of date.
• Known to conflict with essential business tools (e.g., Microsoft 365, company security software).
• Identified as having potential security vulnerabilities.

This process helps ensure that all software on your device can coexist smoothly and securely.

What Your Results Mean

The check will result in one of two outcomes. Below is a simple guide to understand your result and what action is needed.

Status	What It Means	What To Do
PASS	No Compatibility Issues Found Your device’s installed applications appear to be compatible with our standard business environment.	No action is required. Your system is clear.
ACTION REQUIRED(Fail)	Incompatible Application Detected An application was found that is known to cause performance or security problems in its current state. This is most often due to it being an outdated version.	Action is required:1. Update the application to the latest version, which often resolves the conflict. 2. If an update is not available or does not fix the issue, please uninstall the application. 3. If the application is essential for your job, please contact the IT Help Desk immediately. We will work with you to find an approved alternative or a safe solution.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why was my software flagged? It was working fine.

• An application can be flagged for several reasons. It might have a newly discovered security flaw, or a recent update to our core business software may have created a conflict. Our goal is to address these potential issues proactively.

How is this different from the anti-virus or other checks?

• Anti-virus software looks for malicious code (viruses, malware). Other checks might look for very specific types of programs. This “Application Compatibility” check is a broader scan that serves as a safety net for everything else, focusing on general stability and security.

What if I need this application for my work?

• Your productivity is our priority. If a program essential to your role is flagged, please do not ignore the warning. Contact the IT Help Desk. We can help investigate the issue, approve a software exception if appropriate, or provide a supported alternative that meets your needs.

Purpose: Confirming Your Primary Defense Against Malware is Active and Alert

Your computer’s antivirus software is its most important line of defense against viruses, ransomware, and other malicious software. This health check is a vital diagnostic that confirms your digital “security guard” is not only on duty, but is also awake, alert, and equipped with the latest information to protect you effectively.

How it Works: The Security Guard’s Three-Point Check

Think of your antivirus program as a dedicated security guard for your computer. For this guard to be effective, they need to meet three critical conditions. Our health check verifies all three:

Is the Guard on Duty? (Is it enabled?)

1. First, we check that you have a security guard and that they are clocked in and active. An antivirus program that is turned off offers no protection.

Is the Guard Actively Patrolling? (Is real-time protection on?)

2. A guard sitting in a back room isn’t very useful. We verify that “real-time protection” is on, meaning your guard is actively patrolling your system, inspecting files and applications as you use them.

Does the Guard Have Today’s “Most Wanted” List? (Are definitions up-to-date?)

3. Criminals change their tactics every day. Your guard needs the most current “Most Wanted” list (virus definitions) to recognize new threats. We check that this list has been updated within the last 7 days. An outdated list is a major security blind spot.

What Your Results Mean

This is a fundamental security check. Your result indicates your level of protection against active threats.

Status	What It Means	What To Do
Fully Protected(Pass)	Your antivirus is active and up-to-date.Your digital security guard is on duty, actively patrolling, and has the latest “Most Wanted” list.	No action is required. Your protection is sound.
Action Recommended(Warning)	Your protection is compromised. This means either your guard is not actively patrolling (real-time protection is off) or their “Most Wanted” list is old (definitions are outdated).	Please take the following steps:  1. Restart your computer. This often resolves the issue. 2. Manually run Windows Update to check for new security intelligence updates. 3. If the warning persists, contact the IT Help Desk.
ACTION REQUIRED(Fail)	You have no active antivirus protection.This is a critical security failure. Your computer has no security guard on duty, leaving it completely exposed to malware.	This is a top priority security risk. Please contact the IT Help Desk IMMEDIATELY to report this issue. Do not use the computer for sensitive tasks until it is resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is this different from the Firewall?

• The Firewall is the traffic cop for your internet connection, deciding what data can come and go. The Antivirus is the security guard inside your computer, inspecting the files and programs themselves. You need both.

I have another antivirus program installed. Why am I seeing a warning?

• Even if you have a third-party antivirus (e.g., McAfee, Norton), it must be active and up-to-date to be effective. If it’s expired, disabled, or not updating, it becomes a liability. Our standard, Microsoft Defender, is always available to take over protection.

Why do the definitions need to be updated so frequently?

• Thousands of new viruses and malware variants are created every single day. Regular updates ensure your computer can recognize and block these brand-new threats as soon as they appear.

Purpose: Ensuring System Compatibility and Performance

To ensure your work computer runs smoothly and securely, we perform routine health checks on all devices. One of these checks looks for a specific category of software used in online gaming known as “anti-cheat” systems.

While essential for fair play in gaming, this type of software can sometimes conflict with business applications, security tools, or general system performance. This check is not about monitoring gaming habits; it is strictly about identifying potential software conflicts to keep your device productive and stable.

How the Check Works

Our system performs a simple scan to identify the presence of common anti-cheat programs. This software often integrates deeply with a computer’s operating system to function, which is why it can occasionally cause compatibility issues.

The check looks for well-known systems, including:

• Easy Anti-Cheat
• BattlEye
• Riot Vanguard
• FACEIT
• PunkBuster

What Your Results Mean

The check will result in one of two outcomes. Below is a simple guide to understand your result and what, if any, action is needed.

Status	What It Means	What To Do
PASS	No Conflicting Software FoundYour device does not have any of the commonly problematic anti-cheat programs installed, or the versions you have are known to be stable.	No action is required. Your system is clear.
WARNING	Potentially Incompatible Software Detected We found an anti-cheat program that has the potential to cause performance or compatibility issues. Most often, this simply means the software is out of date.	Action is recommended: 1. Update the software. The easiest fix is to open the associated game or game launcher (e.g., Steam, Epic Games Launcher) and let it download the latest updates. Game developers frequently release patches to improve compatibility. 2. If problems persist, consider temporarily uninstalling the game/anti-cheat software to see if it resolves the issue.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why do you check for gaming software on a work device?

• Our goal is purely technical. Anti-cheat programs operate in a unique way that can interfere with business software, VPNs, and security protocols. This check helps us proactively troubleshoot performance issues and ensure our business tools run correctly.

Am I in trouble for having games on my computer?

• Not at all. This check is about system health, not employee behavior. As long as the software is kept up-to-date and does not interfere with your work, its presence is not an issue.

What if I need this software for a game I play?

• We understand! In over 90% of cases, simply running the game’s updater resolves the “Warning” status. You do not need to permanently remove it unless it is the source of a specific, ongoing technical problem.

Purpose: Identifying an Advanced Connectivity Feature

To support your productivity wherever you work, some company laptops have a special capability for uninterrupted online access, even when a Wi-Fi network isn’t available. We run a routine check simply to identify which laptops have this built-in advantage. This helps us understand the tools you have at your disposal, ensuring you are well-equipped to perform your work effectively in any environment.

Your device’s result will indicate one of two types. “Enhanced Connectivity” means your device can maintain a secure, independent internet connection, giving you the freedom to work with confidence from more locations. A “Standard Connectivity” result is the normal configuration for most of our devices, designed for reliable performance on trusted Wi-Fi networks in the office or at home. Both types of devices are fully supported and provide the security and performance needed for your role.

This is an informational check only. It is important to understand that this check is purely for our information and requires no action from you, regardless of the outcome. Your device’s connectivity type is simply a characteristic of the hardware, not a reflection of its overall performance or security. This status will not impact your daily work in any way, nor will it affect your computer’s performance or eligibility for software upgrades, like Windows 11.

How it Works: Internet That Travels With You

Think about how you connect to the internet:

• Standard Laptops connect using Wi-Fi, which requires you to be near a wireless router at home, in the office, or at a coffee shop.
• 5G-Enabled Laptops have their own built-in cellular modem, just like a smartphone. This allows them to connect to the internet directly through the 5G cellular network, giving you a fast, secure connection even when Wi-Fi isn’t available.

Our health check simply looks to see if your computer has this built-in cellular capability.

What Your Results Mean

This check identifies whether your device has a built-in 5G modem. There is no “pass” or “fail,” only a status of its capability.

Status	What It Means	What To Do
5G Capable	Your laptop has a built-in 5G modem. You have the ability to connect to the internet over the high-speed cellular network, providing a secure connection on the go.	No action is required. This is a premium feature for enhanced mobility.
Standard Wi-Fi (Not 5G Capable)	Your laptop connects using Wi-Fi.  This is the standard configuration for the vast majority of our computers. Your device may have an older 4G modem or no cellular modem at all.	No action is required. Your computer is fully functional and will continue to work perfectly using Wi-Fi networks.

Frequently Asked Questions

My laptop isn’t 5G capable. Is it outdated or broken?

• Not at all. Built-in 5G is a relatively new, premium feature and is not standard on most laptops. Your device is a standard, fully supported work computer.

Does this mean I can’t get my work done?

• No. Wi-Fi remains the primary and recommended method for connecting to the internet in the office and at home. 5G is an alternative for those who need high-speed connectivity while traveling or in areas without trusted Wi-Fi.

Will this prevent me from upgrading to Windows 11?

• Absolutely not. This check is purely informational. Your device’s 5G status has no impact on its eligibility for Windows 11 or any other software updates.

What if I want a 5G-capable laptop?

• Our standard technology refresh cycles will gradually introduce more 5G-capable devices into our fleet. There is no need to request a special replacement at this time.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the IT Help Desk.

Purpose: Identifying Devices with Next-Generation Wireless Performance

To understand the full capabilities of our company’s computers, we perform routine health checks. This check identifies whether your computer is equipped with the latest wireless technology, known as Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7.

This is an informational check only. Your result does not impact your computer’s ability to connect to our current office and home networks or its eligibility for software upgrades. It simply catalogues which devices are ready for the next generation of wireless connectivity.

How it Works: The Wi-Fi Superhighway

Think of the Wi-Fi signals in an office or at home as a series of highways.

• Standard Wi-Fi operates on the traditional 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. These are like public highways that are shared by countless devices—not just laptops, but also smartphones, smart TVs, and even your neighbor’s devices. They work well, but can get congested, leading to slower speeds.
• Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 can access a brand new, exclusive 6 GHz frequency band. This is like having access to a private, multi-lane superhighway that is reserved only for new, compatible devices. Because this highway is uncongested, it offers:
  • Significantly faster speeds.
  • Lower latency (less lag during video calls).
  • A more stable and reliable connection, especially in crowded areas.

Our health check simply identifies if your computer has the special “E-ZPass” needed to get onto this exclusive superhighway.

What Your Results Mean

This check is only for IT’s information and does not require any action from you.

Status	What It Means	What To Do
Pass (Advanced Wi-Fi Ready)	Your device is equipped with next-gen Wi-Fi.  It has the necessary hardware to connect to Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 networks, allowing it to take advantage of the fastest wireless speeds available.	No action is required.This is a premium feature of your device.
Warning(Standard Wi-Fi)	Your device uses standard, reliable Wi-Fi. Your computer connects using the current industry-standard technology. It is fully functional and compatible with all our existing networks.	No action is required.Your computer is fully supported.

Frequently Asked Questions

My computer has “Standard Wi-Fi.” Is it outdated or broken?

• Not at all. Your computer has modern, high-quality Wi-Fi that is perfect for all business needs. Wi-Fi 6E and 7 are very new technologies that are not yet standard in most devices.

Will this prevent me from connecting to the office or my home Wi-Fi?

• No. All modern devices are backward-compatible. A “Standard” device connects perfectly to all our networks, and an “Advanced” device will still connect to older networks when a Wi-Fi 6E/7 network is not available.

Do I need a new computer to get this feature?

• No. There is no need to request a new device based on this result. As we upgrade our Wi-Fi infrastructure over time, our standard technology refresh cycles will naturally introduce more devices with this capability.

Purpose: Protecting Our Company’s Most Sensitive Information

To safeguard company and client data, our computers rely on advanced security features like encryption. The “TPM” health check verifies that your computer has a modern, dedicated security chip that is essential for these protections to work effectively.

This chip, the Trusted Platform Module (TPM), is a non-negotiable hardware requirement for Windows 11 because it provides a secure foundation for protecting your entire system.

How it Works: A Digital Vault for Your Data’s Keys

Think of the TPM as a high-security, physical vault built directly into your computer’s main circuit board.

• This vault is separate from your main processor and storage, making it highly resistant to tampering and hacking.
• Its only job is to securely generate and protect encryption keys—the digital keys that lock and unlock your sensitive data.
• Features like BitLocker disk encryption (which protects your data if your laptop is lost or stolen) rely on this hardware vault to keep your keys safe.

There are different versions of this vault. TPM 2.0 is the modern standard, like a new bank vault with stronger locks and more advanced alarms. Older versions do not meet today’s security requirements. Our health check simply verifies that your computer has this modern, secure vault.

What Your Results Mean

The check determines if your computer has the required TPM 2.0 security chip.

Status	What It Means	What To Do
PASS	Modern Security Chip (TPM 2.0) Your computer has the required TPM 2.0 security chip. It is equipped to provide the highest level of hardware-based security for your data.	No action is required. Your system meets the security standard.
ACTION REQUIRED(Fail)	Missing or Outdated Security Chip Your computer either lacks a TPM security chip or has an outdated version (below 2.0). It does not have the hardware foundation needed for modern security and is not compatible with Windows 11.	This cannot be fixed with a software update. The TPM is a physical chip. Please contact the IT Help Desk immediately to schedule a device replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is this chip so important?

• Without a TPM, your encryption keys are more vulnerable. It’s the difference between storing the key to a safe inside the safe versus in a separate, secure location. The TPM provides that separate, secure location.

Can you just install a new TPM chip in my computer?

• No. The TPM chip is physically integrated into the computer’s motherboard when it is manufactured. It cannot be added or upgraded later. The only solution is to replace the device.

My computer works fine. Why is this a problem now?

• Your computer may work for basic tasks, but it lacks a fundamental security layer that is now a mandatory standard across the industry. To ensure all company devices are protected against modern threats and can run Windows 11, we must enforce this hardware requirement.

If your device receives an “Action Required” status, please contact the IT Help Desk. We are ready to assist you with a smooth transition to a secure, modern computer.