Published August 2021
This article is intended for users who are not able to upgrade to Windows 11 because their PC is not currently enabled with TPM 2.0 or their PC is capable of running TPM 2.0 but is not set up to do so. If you are unfamiliar with this level of technical detail, we recommend that you consult your PC manufacturer’s support information for more instructions specific to your device.
Most PCs that have shipped in the last 5 years are capable of runningTrusted Platform Moduleversion 2.0 (TPM 2.0). TPM 2.0 isrequired to run Windows 11, as an important building block for security-related features. TPM 2.0 is used in Windows 11 for a number of features, including Windows Hello for identity protection and BitLocker for data protection.
In some cases, PCs that are capable of running TPM 2.0 are not set up to do so. If you are considering upgrading to Windows 11,check to ensure TPM 2.0 is enabled on your device. Most retail PC motherboards used by people building their own PC, for example, ship with TPM turned off by default even though it is almost always available to be enabled.
Option 1: Use the Windows Security app
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RunSettings>Update & Security>Windows Security>Device Security
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If you do not see aSecurity processorsection on this screen your PC may have a TPM that is disabled. see How to enable TPMfor more information or check your PC manufacturer’s support information for instructions. to enable the TPM. If you are able to enable a TPM, complete the next stepto verify that it is a TPM 2.0.
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If you see an option forSecurity processor detailsunderSecurity processor, select that and verify that yourSpecification versionis 2.0. If it is less than 2.0, your device does not meet the Windows 11 requirements.
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Option 2: Use the Microsoft Management Console
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Press [Windows Key] +Ror selectStart>Run.
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Type“tpm.msc” (do not use quotation marks) and chooseOK.
See AlsoUse TPM with ChromeOS FlexHow to Fix the Trusted Module Platform (TPM) Error in Windows 10Is It Safe to Clear TPM When Resetting Windows 10/11? [Answered] - MiniToolManaging Windows Encryption: enable or clear TPM - Knowledgebase / Security / Encryption-
If you see a message saying a “Compatible TPM cannot be found,”your PC may have a TPM that is disabled. See How to enable TPM for more information or check your PC manufacturer’s support information for instructions to enable the TPM. If you are able to enable the TPM, complete the next step to verify that it is a TPM 2.0.
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If you see a message confirming TPM is ready to use, check Specification Version under TPM Manufacturer Information to verify it is 2.0. If it is less than 2.0 your device does not meet the Windows 11 requirement.
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How to enable TPM
If you need to enable TPM, these settings are managed via the UEFI BIOS (PC firmware) and vary based on your device. You can access these settings by choosing:Settings>Update & Security>Recovery > Restart now.
From the next screen, choose Troubleshoot> Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings > Restart to make the changes. These settings are sometimes contained in a sub-menu in the UEFI BIOS labeled Advanced, Security, or Trusted Computing. The option to enable the TPM may be labeled Security Device, Security Device Support, TPM State, AMD fTPM switch, AMD PSP fTPM, Intel PTT,or Intel Platform Trust Technology.
If you are unsure how to make any needed changes to the TPM settings, we recommend that you check your PC manufacturer’s support information or contact their support organization. Below are links to information from some PC manufacturers to help you get started:
See Also
Windows 11 system requirements
How to use the PC Health Check app
I'm an enthusiast with extensive knowledge in the field of computer hardware and software, particularly focusing on Windows operating systems and their associated technologies. My expertise is rooted in hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the technical intricacies involved. Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the article published in August 2021, addressing users who cannot upgrade to Windows 11 due to TPM 2.0 issues.
The article primarily revolves around Trusted Platform Module version 2.0 (TPM 2.0), an integral component for security-related features in Windows 11. TPM 2.0 is crucial for functions like Windows Hello for identity protection and BitLocker for data protection.
Here are the key concepts discussed in the article:
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TPM 2.0 Requirement for Windows 11:
- Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0 as a fundamental building block for security features.
- Most PCs shipped in the last 5 years are capable of running TPM 2.0.
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Checking TPM Status:
- Users are advised to check if TPM 2.0 is enabled on their device before upgrading to Windows 11.
- Retail PC motherboards often ship with TPM turned off by default, even though it is available to be enabled.
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Options to Check and Enable TPM:
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Option 1: Using the Windows Security App:
- Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Device Security.
- Check for a "Security processor" section to verify TPM status.
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Option 2: Using Microsoft Management Console:
- Press [Windows Key] + R or select Start > Run.
- Type "tpm.msc" and press OK to check TPM status.
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Verifying TPM Specification Version:
- After enabling TPM, users need to verify that the Specification Version is 2.0.
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How to Enable TPM:
- TPM settings are managed via UEFI BIOS (PC firmware) and vary based on the device.
- Access these settings through Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Restart now.
- Navigate through Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings to enable TPM.
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Manufacturer-Specific Information:
- Different PC manufacturers may have variations in TPM settings in the UEFI BIOS.
- Users are encouraged to consult their PC manufacturer’s support information for specific instructions.
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Additional Resources:
- The article provides links to information from specific PC manufacturers (Asus, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Microsoft Surface) to assist users in getting started.
In summary, the article offers a comprehensive guide for users facing challenges upgrading to Windows 11 due to TPM 2.0 issues, covering checks, enabling TPM, and manufacturer-specific details. If you have any further questions or need more detailed information, feel free to ask.