Windows 11 boasts a pretty intuitive and modern design. However, the operating system also comes with specific hardware requirements, including the TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module). For those unfamiliar, this chip is designed to boost system security by enabling features like Windows Hello, BitLocker encryption, and secure boot. If you have run into an error that your PC can’t run Windows 11 due to TPM 2.0, fret not. Many modern systems have TPM 2.0, but it may simply be disabled in the BIOS. That said, follow along to enable it and get your PC ready for Windows 11.
Check if Your PC Already Has TPM 2.0
Before making any BIOS changes, I would recommend that you verify if TPM is already enabled to avoid unnecessary steps.
- To get going, press
Windows + R> typetpm.msc> hit Enter. - This opens the TPM Management window.
- If you see “The TPM is ready for use” and version 2.0 is listed, you’re good to go.
Enable TPM 2.0 from UEFI BIOS Settings
It’s worth pointing out that TPM is often disabled by default in BIOS for compatibility or privacy reasons, but enabling it allows Windows 11 to detect the security hardware it requires to install.
- First off, you have to restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings.
- This is usually done by pressing
Delete,F2, orEscimmediately after powering on, depending on your PC’s manufacturer. - Look for a tab named
Security,Advanced, orTrusted Computing. - Find and enable the option labeled TPM, PTT (Platform Trust Technology for Intel), or fTPM (for AMD systems).
- Save your settings and exit BIOS.
Confirm TPM Activation After Activation
It allows you to confirm that the BIOS changes were successful and that your system is now eligible for the Windows 11 upgrade.
- Once your PC restarts, press
Windows + R> typetpm.msc, and press Enter again. - After that, ensure that the TPM status reads “The TPM is ready for use” and the specification version is 2.0.
Update BIOS If TPM Option Is Missing
Bear in mind that some older BIOS versions don’t display TPM options even if the motherboard supports it. Updating the BIOS unlocks newer features and ensures Windows 11 readiness.
- To begin with, visit your motherboard or PC manufacturer’s official website.
- After that, download and install the latest BIOS version compatible with your system model.
- Next, reboot and re-enter BIOS to check for TPM settings.
Verify Windows 11 Compatibility with PC Health Check
It’s worth pointing out that it gives you a final confirmation that your system is ready for the upgrade, ensuring no surprises during the installation process.
- To get going, make sure to download the official PC Health Check Tool from Microsoft’s website.
- Then, run the tool to confirm your system meets all Windows 11 requirements, including TPM 2.0.
Wrapping up…
And that’s about it! TPM 2.0 is a core requirement for Windows 11, aimed at strengthening your system’s security framework. If your device is relatively new, chances are it already supports TPM 2.0—it just needs to be enabled in BIOS. By following these steps carefully, you can make your system compliant and enjoy all the benefits of Windows 11. Don’t skip these checks—securing your PC and keeping it up to date has never been more important.
