If you’re running Windows 11 on unsupported hardware, brace yourself—Microsoft seems determined to make the experience as frustrating as possible. The company is reportedly introducing a watermark and persistent pop-up messages to remind users that their hardware doesn’t officially support the operating system. This could push users toward upgrading to a new PC, which aligns with Microsoft’s apparent preference.

Windows 11’s Strict Hardware Requirements

When Windows 11 launched, Microsoft introduced stringent hardware requirements, including the need for a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0. TPM 2.0, a security feature built into modern motherboards, was marketed as essential for improving the operating system’s security.

This requirement excluded many otherwise capable PCs and laptops, including relatively new devices that had no trouble running Windows 10. This sparked backlash, with many users feeling unnecessarily locked out of upgrading. In response, various workarounds emerged, enabling users to install Windows 11 on unsupported devices.

These unofficial solutions demonstrated that many unsupported PCs could handle Windows 11 just fine. But Microsoft, seemingly unhappy with this workaround trend, is now escalating its efforts to dissuade users.

New Annoyances for Unsupported PCs

According to reports, unsupported PCs running Windows 11 will soon display a desktop watermark similar to those seen on unactivated copies of Windows. Additionally, users will encounter warning messages in the Settings app.

On top of these visual reminders, Microsoft has issued stern warnings: unsupported systems might miss critical updates, including security patches. Furthermore, damages caused by running Windows 11 on unsupported hardware may not be covered under warranty.

While some may question how much risk unsupported hardware poses, missing essential security updates could leave devices vulnerable to malware and other threats.

Microsoft’s Hardline Stance

Given how aggressively Microsoft has been pushing users to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11, one might assume the company would tolerate users finding ways to adopt the new operating system, even on unsupported hardware. However, Microsoft is holding firm: no TPM 2.0, no official Windows 11 support.

This approach is puzzling. While TPM 2.0 has legitimate security applications, it’s a feature most individual users neither understand nor prioritize. For users frustrated enough by their device’s ineligibility to bypass restrictions and install Windows 11, the addition of an intrusive watermark and nagging pop-ups will likely only add to their irritation.

The only official options Microsoft offers these users are downgrading back to Windows 10 or buying a new PC with Windows 11 pre-installed. Many users, however, may balk at the idea of purchasing a new device, especially when their current hardware is fully capable of running Windows 11.

Proceed with Caution

While it’s easy to sympathize with those running Windows 11 on unsupported devices, Microsoft’s warnings about missed updates should not be ignored. Missing a crucial security patch could expose your system to potential cyber threats, which may outweigh the benefits of sticking with Windows 11.

That said, Microsoft’s stance leaves a sour taste. Workarounds have shown that unsupported PCs can perform well with Windows 11, but Microsoft’s rigid insistence on TPM 2.0 feels less about necessity and more about enforcing its own rules, regardless of practicality.