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.