Introduction

Microsoft has recently taken a decisive step in enforcing its Windows 11 hardware compatibility requirements by removing a popular registry bypass that allowed users to install Windows 11 on PCs without meeting Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 and CPU requirements. This move represents a clear shift towards stricter compliance and security, as Microsoft prepares for the impending end-of-support for Windows 10 in October 2025.

Background on Windows 11 Hardware Requirements

Introduced in October 2021, Windows 11 brought with it a significant tightening of hardware requirements compared to Windows 10. The key system requirements include:

  • Processor: Compatible 64-bit processor (Intel 8th Gen or newer, AMD Zen+ or newer)
  • Memory: Minimum 4GB RAM
  • Storage: Minimum 64GB storage
  • Security modules: TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) and Secure Boot capability
  • Graphics: DirectX 12 compatible graphics with WDDM 2.0 driver
  • Display: Larger than 9 inches with HD resolution

These requirements were designed to enhance security, reliability, and performance but led to frustration among users with older yet capable hardware.

The Registry Bypass and Its Removal

To circumvent these stringent checks, enthusiasts and IT professionals developed a registry hack by adding a DWORD registry key named INLINECODE0 set to INLINECODE1 , located at INLINECODE2 . This tweak effectively disabled CPU and TPM checks during installation, enabling Windows 11 to install on unsupported hardware.

However, as part of the Windows 11 Insider Build 27686 "Dilithium" platform update, Microsoft has patched the registry bypass loophole, removing the ability to ignore these critical system checks during installation. Additionally, another popular trick using the command INLINECODE3 to bypass compatibility was also rendered obsolete. This patch is currently rolling out in Insider builds and is expected to reach stable builds later.

Implications and Impact

  • For Users: This change means that PCs lacking the officially supported CPUs or TPM 2.0 modules will no longer be able to upgrade or clean install Windows 11 via the previous bypass methods. Users with legacy hardware will need to either upgrade their hardware or remain on Windows 10 until the support end date.
  • Security: Microsoft emphasizes that TPM 2.0 and compatible CPUs are foundational for modern security features in Windows 11, such as secure boot, hardware-level encryption, and protection against firmware attacks.
  • Support: Microsoft’s enforcement ensures that only compliant hardware receives ongoing feature updates and security patches, helping maintain a more secure Windows ecosystem.
  • Community Response: The move has elicited mixed reactions—some users lament the lost flexibility, while others appreciate the strengthened security posture.

Technical Details

  • The registry key INLINECODE4 allowed bypassing checks but is now ignored in the latest builds.
  • The removal applies to Windows 11 version 24H2 installations and possibly future versions.
  • Alternative unofficial methods such as Flyby11 offer some escape routes but require caution due to security risks.
  • TPM 2.0 is crucial for Windows 11’s security, storing encryption keys, securing boot processes, and enabling new authentication methods.

Alternatives and Recommendations

For users with incompatible hardware:

  1. Enable TPM in BIOS/UEFI: Many modern PCs have TPM present but disabled in firmware.
  2. Upgrade Hardware: To enjoy full support and security features, upgrading to a compliant CPU and motherboard with TPM 2.0 is advisable.
  3. Stay on Windows 10: Support continues until October 14, 2025, providing a grace period.
  4. Use Bypass Tools with Caution: Advanced users may explore tools like Flyby11, but these come with risks and may lose support.

Conclusion

Microsoft’s removal of the registry bypass for TPM and CPU requirements marks a significant enforcement of Windows 11’s system prerequisites. While this may inconvenience users with older hardware, it underscores the company’s commitment to security and stability in its flagship operating system, especially as Windows 10 nears its end-of-support. Staying informed and preparing hardware upgrades will be vital for users wishing to continue with Windows 11 beyond the transition period.