In a recent development, Microsoft is expected to prevent very old computers from running the next major Windows 11 update, known as 24H2. This change is due to a newly discovered requirement for the POPCNT instruction, which is not supported by many older CPUs.
POPCNT is a CPU instruction used for counting the number of set bits in a value and has been present in CPUs for decades. However, Intel introduced POPCNT with its Nehalem architecture in 2008, and AMD with its Barcelona architecture in 2007. Therefore, if your computer uses a CPU manufactured before those dates, it may no longer be compatible with future Windows 11 updates.
While this change may cause concerns for some users who have bypassed Windows 11 hardware restrictions on older systems, it is important to note that Microsoft already limits Windows 11 installation to relatively modern processors (8th generation Intel chips or newer). Therefore, the majority of users won’t be affected.
It remains unclear whether this change is intentional or an unintended consequence of including newer CPU instructions during the development process. Microsoft has not yet officially commented on this situation.
This development highlights Microsoft’s increasing focus on imposing stricter hardware requirements for its operating systems. If you have a significantly older computer and plan to continue using Windows 11 long-term, it is advisable to consider the upcoming limitations.
However, if you have already checked the compatibility list provided by Microsoft, there is no need to worry. Your device will continue to work normally.
Microsoft is currently finalizing the 24H2 version, set to be released to manufacturers (RTM) by April. For those eager to try out the update in advance, the Insider Preview build of Windows 11 version 24H2 (Build 26052) can be installed through the Dev or Canary channel.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s decision to enforce stricter hardware requirements for future Windows 11 updates highlights the company’s commitment to optimizing performance and compatibility. While older computers may face limitations, the majority of users who adhere to the established hardware guidelines will continue to enjoy a seamless Windows 11 experience.
FAQ:
1. Why is Microsoft preventing very old computers from running the next major Windows 11 update?
Microsoft is preventing very old computers from running the next major Windows 11 update, known as 24H2, due to a newly discovered requirement for the POPCNT instruction, which is not supported by many older CPUs.
2. What is the POPCNT instruction?
The POPCNT instruction is a CPU instruction used for counting the number of set bits in a value. It has been present in CPUs for decades, but Intel introduced it with its Nehalem architecture in 2008, and AMD with its Barcelona architecture in 2007.
3. Who will be affected by this change?
If your computer uses a CPU manufactured before 2007 (AMD) or 2008 (Intel), it may no longer be compatible with future Windows 11 updates. However, Microsoft already limits Windows 11 installation to relatively modern processors (8th generation Intel chips or newer), so the majority of users won’t be affected.
4. Is this change intentional?
It remains unclear whether this change is intentional or an unintended consequence of including newer CPU instructions during the development process. Microsoft has not yet officially commented on this situation.
5. What should I do if I have a significantly older computer and plan to continue using Windows 11 long-term?
If you have a significantly older computer and plan to continue using Windows 11 long-term, it is advisable to consider the upcoming limitations. Microsoft’s decision to enforce stricter hardware requirements for its operating systems suggests a shift towards optimizing performance and compatibility.
6. How can I check if my device is compatible with Windows 11?
To check if your device is compatible with Windows 11, you can refer to the compatibility list provided by Microsoft. If your device is listed as compatible, there is no need to worry. It will continue to work normally.
7. When will the 24H2 version of Windows 11 be released?
Microsoft is currently finalizing the 24H2 version of Windows 11, which is set to be released to manufacturers (RTM) by April.
Key Terms:
– POPCNT instruction: A CPU instruction used for counting the number of set bits in a value.
– Nehalem architecture: An architecture introduced by Intel in 2008.
– Barcelona architecture: An architecture introduced by AMD in 2007.
– CPU: Central Processing Unit, the main component of a computer that performs most tasks.
Related Links:
– Microsoft
– Windows 11
The source of the article is from the blog meltyfan.es