How will Windows 11 affect users and what CPUs will run on it?

[ad_1]

Q: I got a warning that my pretty fast AMD FX-9590 CPU (central processing unit) will not be able to run Windows 11. So I went to see which CPUs will run Windows 11. If I’m reading the list correctly, almost all computers with CPUs older than 4 years will be unusable.

There must be millions of computers used by large corporations that will become obsolete after October 14, 2025. Does Microsoft really believe that only gamers will be using Windows within 4 years? Replacing corporate computers will cost billions, but they could do it, but for the common Windows user, spending $ 500 (or much more) on a new computer will be pretty much out of the question.

I’d be interested in reading your opinion on what this will do to the average Windows user.

– Bruce Faber

A: Yes, Microsoft’s recent announcement that Windows 11 will not support Intel 7th Gen CPUs and earlier, as well as AMD Ryzen 1000 CPUs and earlier, has certainly sparked a storm in tech media publishing. And yes, even if your AMD FX-9590 is damn fast it’s not on the supported CPU list.

Related technical questions and answers Read more from Patrick Marshall here >>

According to Microsoft, this is because CPU speed is not the only consideration in the design of Windows 11. Microsoft has reportedly built Windows 11 with an emphasis on security, requiring CPUs that support virtualization-based security (VBS) and the integrity of the code protected by the hypervisor (HVCI). Both technologies are designed to isolate application operations from potential vulnerabilities in the operating system.

Any processor prior to 2017 is likely not supported by Windows 11. If you would like to check for a specific processor, Microsoft offers a full list here: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-hardware/design/ minimum requirements / processor-Windows

Given the rapid growth of hacking and ransomware attacks, this move is likely to be very popular with organizations that are often targets of hackers and malware – military, corporations, governments, universities, hospitals and the like. And given that the average lifespan of desktop computers has been set by the industry to be between four and seven years and that of notebook computers between three and five years, Microsoft’s timing seems reasonable enough.

For most consumers, there are three reasons not to worry too much about Windows 11 compatibility. First, as noted, Microsoft will still support Windows 10 until October 2025. Thereafter, while you will be able to use Windows 10, Microsoft will not provide security updates or new features for the operating system.

Second, in the past, Microsoft has sometimes extended support for OS versions beyond scheduled end dates. I bet if Microsoft sees a large segment of its market unable to move to Windows 11 it will extend support for Windows 10 until it changes.

Third, aside from increased security, there isn’t much to bring Windows 10 users to Windows 11. It has Microsoft Teams built into the operating system, but Windows 10 users can download and install Microsoft Teams if they want that communication platform. corporate.

And Windows 11 also offers some new ways to organize your desktop.

For the most part, however, from my initial look at Windows 11, I haven’t seen any feature changes that appealed to me. I’ve only been using Windows 11 for a week, but so far I’m operating in the Windows 11 world just like in the Windows 10 world.

There will no doubt be some users who will feel compelled to upgrade their equipment if Microsoft actually stops support for Windows 10 after 2025. And I agree that that would be a shame.

But consider the alternative. Imagine if operating systems were to guarantee functionality on older operating computers. We would still be looking at DOS prompts on monochrome screens.

Patrick Marshall: [email protected]; Questions for Patrick Marshall can be emailed to [email protected] or [email protected]. More columns on st.news/marshallQA

[ad_2]