Windows 11 23H2 System Requirements

In the world of technology, change is inevitable, and Microsoft is no stranger to this fact. With the release of Windows 11 23H2, the tech giant has brought forth an array of system requirements that users must meet to ensure a smooth transition to this new operating system. In this article, we’ll delve into the intricacies of these requirements, ensuring you have all the information you need for a successful upgrade.

Windows 11 23H2 Hardware Requirements

Processor Powerhouse

To kick things off, your system must have a 1GHz or faster CPU or System on a Chip (SoC) boasting two or more cores. This is the heart of your computer’s performance and a fundamental CPU requirement for Windows 11 23H2.

RAM – The Memory Maven

Next in line is the memory – your system must have a minimum of 4GB of RAM. RAM is crucial for multitasking and ensuring a smooth user experience.

Storage Space Galore

Windows 11 23H2 demands ample storage, requiring at least 64GB of disk space. This ensures you have room for your operating system and digital necessities.

Secure Firmware

Your system firmware must be UEFI, Secure Boot capable. This security feature is essential to safeguard your system against threats and vulnerabilities.

Trusty TPM 2.0

Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0 is non-negotiable. It’s a critical component for security and data protection.

Graphics Greatness

Your graphics card needs to be compatible with DirectX 12 or later equipped with a WDDM 2.0 driver. This ensures you can enjoy the latest visual enhancements.

Crystal-Clear Display

For your visual pleasure, Windows 11 23H2 requires a high-definition (720p) display greater than 9 inches diagonally, with 8 bits per color channel.

Networking Necessities

To complete the setup process, you’ll need a Microsoft account and internet connectivity. This ensures that your Windows 11 experience is fully connected.

Microsoft Account – A Must-Have

A Microsoft account is imperative for Windows 11 Pro or Home editions. It’s the key to unlocking the full potential of your operating system. Local accounts during the initial setup are no longer supported.

Windows 11 23H2 Supported Processors

Intel Inside

For Intel users, Windows 11 23H2 supports 8th Gen and higher processors, including some Pentium, Atom, Celeron, and Xeon CPUs. Compatibility is key, and these processors cut.

AMD’s Acceptance

The second-generation Ryzen processors and newer are fully supported on the AMD front. This also includes some EPYC and Athlon CPUs. AMD enthusiasts, you’re in the Windows 11 23H2 club.

ARM Advancements

ARM enthusiasts can rejoice as well. Windows 11 23H2 supports Qualcomm Snapdragon 850, 7c, 8c, and 8cx first and second generations, as well as the Microsoft SQ1 and SQ2.

Special Cases

Special mention goes to the 7th Gen Intel processors, particularly the 7820HQ chip. Intel’s Core X and Xeon W processors are also supported, provided the device comes with Declarative, Componentized Hardware Support Apps (DCH) drivers.

Features That Demand More

Now, let’s talk about the hardware requirements for specific features in Windows 11 23H2:

5G Support

To access 5G capabilities, your system must have a 5G capable modem.

Auto HDR

Auto HDR functionality requires an HDR monitor to bring out those vivid colors truly.

BitLocker to Go

For BitLocker to Go, ensure you have a USB flash drive.

Client Hyper-V

Client Hyper-V demands a processor with second-level address translation (SLAT) capabilities, available in Windows Pro and above editions.

DirectStorage

To take advantage of DirectStorage, you’ll need a 1TB or greater NVMe SSD and a DirectX 12 Ultimate GPU.

DirectX 12 Ultimate

For DirectX 12 Ultimate features, ensure your system has supported games and graphics chips.

Presence

Presence features require sensors capable of detecting human distance from the device or intent to interact with it.

Intelligent Video Conferencing

You’ll need a video camera, microphone, and speaker to embrace Intelligent Video Conferencing.

Multiple Voice Assistant (MVA)

For multiple voice assistants, a microphone and speaker are essential.

Three-Column Layouts

Enjoying three-column layouts requires a screen with a width of 1920 effective pixels or more significant.

Mute/Unmute from Taskbar

To utilize the Mute/Unmute feature from the taskbar, you’ll need a video camera, microphone, and speaker. The app must also support these features.

Spatial Sound

Spatial Sound features require both supporting hardware and software.

Touchscreen Technology

If you prefer a touch-based experience, your system must have a screen or monitor that supports multi-touch.

Two-Factor Authentication

For an added layer of security, two-factor authentication requires a PIN, biometric options (like a fingerprint reader or illuminated infrared camera), or a phone with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities.

Voice Typing

Voice Typing features necessitate a microphone.

Wake on Voice

To wake your system with your voice, ensure you have a Modern Standby power model and a microphone.

Wi-Fi 6E

Embracing Wi-Fi 6E technology calls for new WLAN IHV hardware and drivers and a Wi-Fi 6E capable access point or router.

Windows Hello

Windows Hello for biometric authentication requires a camera configured for near-infrared (IR) imaging or a fingerprint reader. Devices without biometric sensors can utilize Windows Hello with a PIN or a compatible Microsoft security key.

Windows 11 23H2 Compatibility Check

To determine if your Windows 10 computer is ready for the Windows 11 23H2 upgrade, you can utilize the “Microsoft PC Health Check” app. This app provides insights into your system’s compatibility, highlighting any components needing attention.

Here’s how to perform the compatibility check:

  1. Open the PC Health Check page.
  2. Under the “Check for compatibility” section, click the “Download PC Health Check app” button.
  3. Double-click the WindowsPCHealthCheckSetup.msi file.
  4. Accept the terms in the License Agreement and click Install.
  5. Check the “Open Windows PC Health Check” option.
  6. Click Finish.
  7. Under the “Introducing Windows 11” section, click the “Check now” button.

Once the check is complete, you’ll receive a message confirming whether your hardware is ready for the Windows 11 23H2 upgrade. If not, the app will provide details on what needs to be addressed.

Enabling TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot

For users with devices running Windows 10 and planning to upgrade to Windows 11, Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0 and Secure Boot are essential for security and threat prevention.

Checking for TPM 2.0

To confirm if TPM is enabled on your computer, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Search for “tpm.msc” and click the top result to open the “Trusted Platform Module (TPM) Management” tool.
  3. In the “Status and TPM Manufacturer Information” section, ensure that TPM is present and its version is TPM 2.0.

You’ll see detailed hardware information and the status of the TPM on your device. If it reads “Compatible TPM cannot be found,” it means the TPM is either disabled in the UEFI settings or your computer doesn’t have the TPM module.

Enabling TPM 2.0 inside UEFI

To enable TPM 2.0 on Windows 10 in preparation for the Windows 11 23H2 upgrade, use these steps:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Click on “Update & Security.”
  3. Choose “Recovery” from the left-hand menu.
  4. Under the “Advanced startup” section, click the “Restart now” button.
  5. Click on “Troubleshoot.”
  6. Select “Advanced options.”
  7. Click the “UEFI Firmware settings” option.
  8. Click the “Restart” button.

Navigate to the advanced, security, or boot settings page depending on your motherboard’s firmware.

Select the “TPM 2.0” option and choose “Enabled.” If your device uses an AMD processor, you might find the option listed as “fTPM” (firmware-based TPM 2.0) or “AMD fTPM switch.” For Intel-based systems, look for “Platform Trust Technology (PTT).”

If your computer doesn’t have a TPM option and it’s a custom build, you might have the option to purchase and install a compatible TPM module. Check your motherboard manufacturer’s website to confirm compatibility and availability.

Once you complete these steps, your system should pass the Windows 11 compatibility check, allowing you to proceed with the upgrade.

Checking for Secure Boot

Secure Boot is another vital requirement for installing Windows 11 23H2. To determine whether Secure Boot is enabled on your system, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Search for “System Information” and click the top result to open the app.
  3. In the left pane, click on “System Summary.”
  4. Check the “Secure Boot State” information and ensure it’s set to “On.”

If Secure Boot is not enabled, you must enable it manually.

Enabling Secure Boot for Windows 11

Enabling Secure Boot is crucial for a successful upgrade to Windows 11. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Click on “Update & Security.”
  3. Choose “Recovery” from the left-hand menu.
  4. Under the “Advanced startup” section, click the “Restart now” button.
  5. Click on “Troubleshoot.”
  6. Select “Advanced options.”
  7. Click the “UEFI Firmware settings” option.
  8. Click the “Restart” button.

Navigate to the advanced, security, or boot settings page, depending on your motherboard’s firmware.

Select the “Secure Boot” option and choose “Enabled.”

If your device currently uses the legacy BIOS, you must convert your MBR drive to GPT, switch to UEFI mode, and enable Secure Boot. This is crucial if you plan to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11.

Once you’ve completed these steps, your device should meet the hardware requirements for Windows 11 23H2, ensuring a smooth and secure upgrade experience.

In conclusion, Windows 11 23H2 brings many new features and enhancements, but it also demands specific hardware requirements to ensure optimal performance and security. By following the steps to check and enable TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, you can prepare your Windows 10 device for the exciting transition to Windows 11 23H2.

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