My computer uses “Standard Login.” Is it less secure?

• No. Your work PIN is also a form of passwordless login that is tied directly to your specific device and its security chip. It is highly secure and is our company’s standard. Windows Hello is an optional convenience built on top of that security.

Do I have to use Windows Hello if my device is “Ready”?

• No, it is completely optional. You can continue to use your PIN if you prefer.

If I use Windows Hello, does the company have my fingerprint or a picture of my face?

• Absolutely not. This is a critical point of privacy. Your fingerprint or face data is converted into a secure digital signature that is stored and encrypted only on your local computer’s security chip. It never leaves your device and is never accessible by our company, Microsoft, or anyone else.

How do I set it up on a “Hello Ready” device?

• You can go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options and follow the on-screen instructions to register your face or fingerprint.

I received a “Warning.” Does this mean I won’t get the Windows 11 upgrade?

• No. You will still receive all required updates. This check is purely informational for IT to understand the status of your device. It does not block any upgrades.

Why is my “undo button” disabled?

• The most common reason is that it has been more than 10 days since the last major Windows update, and the system has automatically cleaned up the old files to save space. This is normal behavior.

Why is this feature important?

• It’s a recovery tool. In the rare event an update causes a critical problem, this feature allows IT to restore your computer to a working state in minutes, rather than hours.

Do I need to do anything to enable it?

• No. This is a system-level feature that is managed automatically by Windows and our IT policies. There is no action you need to take.

Those pop-ups are annoying. Why can’t I just turn them off?

• That pop-up is your most important moment of defense. While it can seem like an interruption, it’s the feature that prevents a malicious email attachment or website from silently installing ransomware or spyware. The brief moment of inconvenience is a massive security benefit.

How is this different from my antivirus?

• Your antivirus looks for programs that are known to be bad. UAC protects you from the actions of any program, even ones that seem legitimate. If a seemingly safe program suddenly tries to change a core security setting, UAC will stop it and ask you first.

Did I do something wrong to disable it?

• It’s unlikely. Sometimes, the installation of other applications (especially older ones) can change this setting without your knowledge. This check is designed to find and fix these configuration errors.

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.

Why do I need to update so often?

• Cybercriminals discover new security holes every day. Microsoft releases updates to “patch” these holes as soon as they’re found. Frequent updates ensure your computer’s defenses are always one step ahead of the attackers.

Will updates slow down my computer?

• While the update process itself uses resources, running a modern, updated system is much more secure and often performs better. The biggest cause of post-update slowness is not restarting the computer to finish the installation.

Can’t I just ignore the warning?

• No. An unpatched computer is the number one way that ransomware and other serious malware get into a company’s network. Ignoring this warning puts your data, and the entire company, at significant risk.

Why is this a problem now? My computer used to work fine.

• As software becomes more powerful—especially web browsers with many tabs, and collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams—it requires a larger “workbench” to run effectively. An amount of RAM that was acceptable a few years ago is no longer sufficient for today’s demands.

Can’t you just install more memory in my computer?

• In most modern company laptops, RAM is integrated directly into the main board and cannot be easily upgraded. To ensure reliability and performance, the most effective solution is to replace the device with a modern one that meets the current standard.

Why do “Copilot+ PCs” need so much more RAM?

• The advanced, on-device AI features of Copilot+ PCs are incredibly powerful and require a much larger “workbench” (at least 16 GB) to operate. This extra space ensures that AI tasks can run in the background without slowing down your primary work.

How is this different from my regular anti-virus?

• Your anti-virus is the security guard checking IDs at the door. This scan is the detective investigating inside the building for intruders who may have slipped past the guard.

I received a warning. What did I do wrong?

• You likely did nothing wrong. Modern phishing attacks and malware are incredibly sophisticated and designed to trick even the most careful users. Our priority is not to assign blame, but to contain the threat and secure the device as quickly as possible.

Why is the “Action Required” response so urgent?

• If a device is compromised, an active threat could be stealing data, trying to access other systems on our network, or installing ransomware. Disconnecting the device immediately is the most critical step to contain the damage and prevent the threat from spreading.

My computer starts up just fine. Why does this matter?

• While your computer may seem to start normally, the older Legacy BIOS method lacks crucial security protections that happen “under the hood.” For example, it cannot use a feature called “Secure Boot,” which prevents malicious software from loading when your computer turns on. Updating to UEFI ensures your device is protected from these advanced threats.

Is my computer broken or did I do something wrong?

• No, your computer is not broken, and you did not do anything wrong. This is a system setting that is sometimes configured by the manufacturer. Our check simply identifies devices that need to be brought up to the current company standard for security and performance.

What happens if I don’t get this fixed?

• Your device will be more vulnerable to certain types of viruses and will not be eligible for future upgrades, including the mandatory move to Windows 11. It is essential to contact IT to have this setting corrected.

Why is this a problem now? My computer seems to work.

• While your current device may still function, it cannot run the latest software or receive critical security updates. As we upgrade our business tools and operating systems (like the move to Windows 11), 32-bit systems will no longer be compatible, preventing you from doing your work.

Can I just update my computer to fix this?

• Unfortunately, no. A computer’s architecture is tied to its physical hardware (the processor). This is not something that can be changed through a software update. The only solution is to replace the device with a modern one.

What are the benefits of a 64-bit system?

• A 64-bit computer provides enhanced security, runs noticeably faster, and is compatible with all the software you need to do your job today and in the future.

How is this different from the Firewall Status check?

• The Firewall is the policy that says all backdoors should be locked. This Suspicious Ports check is the patrol that physically verifies the locks haven’t been broken or bypassed. It’s an active hunt for evidence of a breach.

Did I do something wrong to open this port?

• Almost certainly not. These ports are opened by malicious software that runs without your knowledge, often after clicking a link in a phishing email or visiting a compromised website. Our goal is to contain the threat, not to assign blame.

Why is the “Action Required” response so urgent?

• An open backdoor means an attacker could be actively stealing your data, listening to your activity, or using your computer to launch further attacks on our company network. Disconnecting the device immediately is the most critical step to contain the damage.

Why is my drive size a problem now? It has enough free space.

• Windows 11 and modern applications require significantly more space than older versions. Even if your small drive has free space now, it won’t be enough to handle future mandatory updates and software installations, which can cause the system to fail.

Can you just install a bigger hard drive in my computer?

• In most modern laptops, the storage drive is an integrated component that is not easily replaced. To ensure system reliability, the standard and most effective solution is to replace the entire device with one that meets current specifications.

Why is the requirement higher for a Copilot+ PC?

• The advanced AI features of Copilot+ PCs, like instant search and on-device assistants, require very large data models to be stored locally. This requires a significantly larger “filing cabinet” (at least 256 GB) to function.

Isn’t having more than one antivirus program better?

• It may seem like it, but in reality, it’s not. Multiple antivirus programs actively fight each other for control of the system, which degrades performance and can create security holes. One strong, well-managed program is far more effective.

Did I do something wrong by having this software?

• Almost certainly not. In over 90% of cases, this software comes pre-installed on new computers from manufacturers like Dell, HP, or Lenovo. This check is just part of our routine process to ensure system health.

Will I be unprotected if I uninstall my current antivirus?

• No. Your computer has Microsoft Defender built-in. It is a robust, enterprise-grade security solution that is always running in the background. As soon as you uninstall the conflicting program, Defender will become the primary, active protector of your system.

Why is this so important? My computer has anti-virus software.

• Anti-virus software is essential, but it only starts running after Windows has loaded. Secure Boot protects you during the vulnerable first few seconds of startup, stopping a type of threat that traditional anti-virus programs can’t see.

Can you just install Secure Boot on my computer?

• Unfortunately, no. Secure Boot is a feature built directly into the computer’s core hardware and its startup instructions (firmware). If the computer was not manufactured with this capability, it cannot be added later.

My check passed. Does that mean Secure Boot is always on?

• It means your computer has the ability to use it, which is the most important part. For specific IT maintenance tasks, it may be temporarily disabled, but our check confirms your device has this non-negotiable security capability built-in.

How does this relate to the “Boot Method” (UEFI) check?

• They are part of the same security team. The modern UEFI boot method is the system that enables the Secure Boot “bouncer” to do its job. You need both to be compliant with modern security standards.

Why is my computer’s speed a problem now? It used to be fine.

• As software has become more powerful and complex, the minimum processing speed required for a smooth experience has increased. A speed that was acceptable five years ago is now a significant bottleneck that can hinder your productivity with modern tools like Microsoft Teams or when using multiple applications.

Can’t you just make my processor faster?

• Unfortunately, no. A processor’s maximum speed is set when it is manufactured and cannot be increased. The only way to improve it is to replace the computer with a device that has a more powerful, modern processor.

How is this different from the “CPU Core Count” check?

• They measure two different aspects of performance.
  • Core Count is like the number of workers you have for multitasking.

• Processor Speed is how fast each of those workers can think. A modern computer needs both enough workers (cores) and for each worker to be fast enough (speed) to provide a good experience.

My computer has a “Standard” rating. Is it outdated or bad?

• Not at all. A “Standard” device is a dependable workhorse and is the configuration for the majority of our computers. It is fully supported and perfect for your role.

Will this prevent me from getting the Windows 11 upgrade?

• Absolutely not. This check is purely informational. The features it looks for are all optional and are not required for Windows 11 compatibility.

Why are you checking for features I may not even use?

• This inventory helps the IT department understand the overall capabilities of our company’s devices. This knowledge helps us plan for future software rollouts and support our employees more effectively.

Do I need a “Highly Featured” device for my job?

• For most roles, no. A standard device is all you need. Highly featured devices are typically assigned based on specific job functions that can benefit from the extra capabilities. There is no need to request a different computer based on this result.

My computer doesn’t have an NPU. Is it broken or obsolete?

• Not at all. NPUs are a very new technology. Most computers in use today are “Standard PCs” and are perfectly capable and fully supported for all business needs.

What are “Copilot+ PC” features?

• These are advanced AI features that run instantly on the device, such as recalling anything you’ve seen on your screen or providing live translation during calls. These require the horsepower of a dedicated NPU.

Will I still be able to use AI on my standard PC?

• Yes. You will continue to use the powerful cloud-based AI in Microsoft 365, Teams, and other applications. This check is only about the new features that run locally on the device itself.

Do I need to request a new computer if mine doesn’t have an NPU?

• No. This is not necessary. Our standard technology refresh process will ensure employees receive computers with the latest technology, including NPUs, as older devices are phased out.

Did you actually make my computer visit a dangerous website?

• No. We use a special, harmless website owned by industry security experts specifically for this kind of testing. It contains no malicious code whatsoever.

My web browser seems to be working fine. Why did I get an “Action Required” warning?

• Web protection can fail silently. You won’t know it’s disabled until you click a real phishing link and it’s too late. This test is designed to find these silent failures so we can fix them proactively.

What kind of threats does this protect me from?

• This is your primary defense against phishing attacks, where criminals try to trick you into entering your password on a fake login page. It also blocks sites that try to secretly install malware on your computer.

My screen isn’t HDR. Is it outdated or low quality?

• Not at all. Your computer has a modern, high-quality display that is perfectly suited for business use. HDR is an optional, premium feature, much like a sunroof in a car—the car works perfectly without it.

Will this prevent me from upgrading to Windows 11?

• No. This check is purely informational and has no effect on your ability to use Windows 11 or any other software.

Do I need an HDR display for my work?

• No. Standard displays are excellent for all business applications, including email, documents, spreadsheets, and video conferencing. HDR provides a cosmetic enhancement for creative or media-focused work but is not a requirement.

Do I need to do anything if my screen is not HDR capable?

• No action is needed. This check simply helps us catalogue the features of our computer fleet.

My screen works fine. Why did this check fail?

• While your screen can display a basic image, older graphics hardware may struggle with the demands of a modern operating system. This can lead to stuttering animations, screen-sharing issues in Teams, or general sluggishness because the hardware isn’t efficient enough. This check ensures your device provides a high-quality visual experience, not just a basic one.

Can’t you just install an update to fix this?

• Sometimes a driver update can help, but often this issue is tied to the physical graphics chip in the computer. If the chip itself was not built to support DirectX 12, no software update can add that capability. It’s like trying to make an old television show a high-definition movie—the underlying technology just isn’t there.

Did I do something wrong?

• Not at all. This result is based on the hardware your computer was built with. Our goal is to proactively identify devices that won’t provide a good experience with modern software and get them replaced.

How is a firewall different from my anti-virus software?

• They have two different but equally important jobs. The firewall is the traffic cop that controls what data can enter or leave your computer over the network. The anti-virus is the inspector that examines files already on your computer to see if they are malicious. You need both to be fully protected.

Why would my firewall be turned off?

• It’s rarely intentional. Sometimes, installing other software or a system update can accidentally change the firewall settings. This check is designed to catch these accidental changes.

Will the firewall stop me from browsing the internet?

• No. A properly working firewall is designed to run silently in the background, blocking only malicious or unauthorized traffic without interrupting your legitimate work.

Why check for educational software on a work device?

• These programs are unique in how they control a computer. They can prevent security software from running, block access to our network, and interfere with business applications like Microsoft Teams. This check is a proactive measure to prevent those technical problems.

Am I in trouble for using my work computer for a course?

• Not at all. We support professional development. This check is about ensuring system stability, not employee activity. As long as the software does not disrupt your work, its temporary presence is not an issue.

What if I need this software for an upcoming exam?

• We understand! The best thing you can do is follow the recommendation to update it to the very latest version before your exam. This will give you the best chance of having a smooth, trouble-free testing experience without technical glitches.

My computer works fine. Why does this need to be changed?

• While your computer functions today, the older MBR format is a roadblock to enabling critical, “under-the-hood” security features. The modern UEFI boot method, which protects your computer before Windows even starts, requires the GPT format to work. This change is essential for your device’s security.

Does this mean my hard drive is old or broken?

• No, not at all. This is not an indication of hardware failure. It is simply an older way of formatting the drive that needs to be updated to the current standard.

How is this related to the “Boot Method” check?

• They are two parts of the same puzzle. The “Boot Method” check ensures your computer is set to use the modern UEFI startup process. This “Disk Partition Style” check ensures your hard drive is formatted in a way that is compatible with UEFI. You need both to be correct for a fully secure system.

Is IT reading my personal files or browser history?

• No. This is an automated scan that checks for the presence and size of history files and settings. It does not collect or report the content of those files to IT. The goal is to inform you about your data so you can manage it.

Why does the company care about my temporary files or browser history?

• There are two reasons: security (outdated temporary files can sometimes be a vector for malware) and performance (large history caches and thousands of temp files can slow down your computer).

Will I be in trouble if my report shows a lot of issues?

• Absolutely not. This is a wellness tool, not a disciplinary one. Its purpose is to help you maintain good digital hygiene, just like we recommend keeping your desk organized.

Why is this a problem now? My computer is working perfectly today.

• Your computer is fine for the current version of Windows. However, this check is looking ahead to the next mandatory update. Because your processor lacks support for specific commands that this future update requires, it will not be able to run it. We are identifying this now to ensure a smooth transition.

Can you just “teach” my processor the new commands?

• Unfortunately, no. The instruction sets a processor knows are physically built into the chip when it is manufactured. They cannot be added or updated later with software. The only solution is a hardware replacement.

Did I do something wrong?

• Not at all. This is purely a hardware compatibility issue based on the processor’s design and age. Our goal is to proactively identify these devices before a mandatory update causes them to stop working correctly.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 your IT Help Desk. We can help investigate the issue, approve a software exception if appropriate, or provide a supported alternative that meets your needs.

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.

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.

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.

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.