2 weeks Ago
Microsoft urges people to upgrade to Windows 11. With Windows 10 reaching end-of-support status come October 14, which means no more security updates and all that brings to the data protection party, it’s no wonder that there has been a push to get users to upgrade to Windows 11 as soon as possible. The security reasoning should be pretty clear, but you can add no-reboot patching to the list soon.
On the flip side, reports of Windows 11 update blue screen of death incidents don’t help convince those still on the fence. But now, Microsoft has published a compelling argument based on the trusted platform module hardware requirement to run Windows 11 to encourage hesitant Windows 10 users over the line. If it helps, Microsoft might even let you upgrade for free if you are quick.
Microsoft has many reasons for encouraging an upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11, and beyond the financials, most of these revolve around security. In a world where cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated, Windows 11 can ensure the integrity of your software and the encryption of your data, Microsoft said. At the heart of this is something that most consumers have never heard of, and couldn’t care less about.
The trusted platform module, better known as the TPM chip, is a hardware requirement to run Windows 11. Microsoft has published an FAQ post explaining just what it is and why it is so important to the security of your device and data. Every time you power up your Windows 11 system, the TPM chip will check that both software and firmware meet integrity requirements, and only if they do will the system boot.
“If there’s a problem, like suspicious changes or malware,” Microsoft explained, “it can stop the system from starting to keep you safe.” By securing your hardware in this fashion, the TPM chip adds a layer of protection against hackers, cybercriminals and malware. The TL;DR security bullet points, according to Microsoft, are as follows: TPM can encrypt your data, making it difficult for hackers to access sensitive information.
TPM verifies the integrity of your system’s software and firmware. Using secure boot to stop malicious software from launching during startup. TPM can detect changes and prevent your system from booting, keeping your device secure from physical attacks.
Many of Windows 11’s most powerful security features rely on TPM, helping keep data safe when your device is lost or stolen. The good news is that if you are looking to upgrade from Windows 10 to the more secure Windows 11 option — a lot more secure after October 14, it has to be said — then you might be able to do so without having to splash any cash at all. Here’s how.
First, check to see if your Windows 10 device is eligible and compliant with the hardware requirements to run Windows 11 by heading to Settings|Windows Update. Select the Check for updates option. “If your device is ready for the update,” Microsoft has said, “you’ll see the option to download and install Windows 11, version 24H2.
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