In a move that’s sure to ruffle the feathers of many veteran PC builders, Microsoft has officially announced that its upcoming Windows 11 24H2 update will no longer support Intel’s 8th, 9th, and 10th generation Core processors—the very hardware that powered millions of “Comet Lake” systems over the past few years. While these processors met the minimum requirements for Windows 11, Microsoft is now embracing a stricter hardware philosophy, focusing on security, reliability, and innovative design principles.
This isn’t an outright ban on continuing to run Windows 11 on older hardware; rather, it’s a strategic move to ensure that users on the newest version of the OS get the best performance, enhanced security features, and a more reliable computing environment.
In effect, by focusing on newer generation processors, Microsoft is helping ensure that the next wave of Windows 11 updates and features can run seamlessly on hardware optimized for today’s demanding computational tasks—think faster system boot times, more efficient multitasking, and advanced security protocols.
For Windows enthusiasts, this is both a challenge and an opportunity—a chance to evaluate your current setup and possibly upgrade for enhanced security, performance, and compatibility with future Windows 11 updates. It might be the nudge needed to move towards a more modern computing environment that’s ready to meet the demands of tomorrow.
What are your thoughts? Will you stick with your current hardware, or are you already planning your next upgrade to join the new generation club? Share your experiences and join the discussion!
Stay tuned for more detailed analyses and guides on Windows updates and hardware support right here on WindowsForum.com.
Source: Wccftech https://wccftech.com/microsoft-drops-support-for-intels-10th-gen-processors-on-windows-11-24h2/
What’s Happening?
Microsoft’s recent decision means that if your system is running on one of these older Intel CPUs—even flagship models like the Core i9 9900K or the 10900K—it won’t receive the latest Windows 11 24H2 update. Instead, only devices with more recent CPU models (including Intel’s 12th generation and newer, as well as a well-curated list of AMD processors) will be supported.This isn’t an outright ban on continuing to run Windows 11 on older hardware; rather, it’s a strategic move to ensure that users on the newest version of the OS get the best performance, enhanced security features, and a more reliable computing environment.
Diving Into the Details
The Evolution of Windows 11 Updates
Windows 11 has always been about pushing the envelope—delivering a suite of modern features that lean heavily on hardware innovation, from advanced security requirements like TPM 2.0 to AI-integrated performance optimizations. Even though Intel’s 8th, 9th, and 10th generation CPUs satisfy these baseline requirements (including TPM 2.0 support), Microsoft’s decision is rooted in more than just ticking boxes. The company is explicitly aiming to support processors that adhere to a refined set of "design principles" for security and performance.In effect, by focusing on newer generation processors, Microsoft is helping ensure that the next wave of Windows 11 updates and features can run seamlessly on hardware optimized for today’s demanding computational tasks—think faster system boot times, more efficient multitasking, and advanced security protocols.
A Tale of Two Hardware Ecosystems
For Windows users eyeing the latest updates, the hardware landscape is shifting:- Intel’s New Era: Microsoft is now exclusively supporting Intel’s 12th generation and later processors on Windows 11 24H2. The technology in these chips is designed not just for performance but also for enhanced security and reliability—a key factor in modern operating system functionality.
- AMD’s Expanding List: In an interesting twist, Microsoft has added several AMD Ryzen 8000 series models to the support roster. This lineup includes:
- AMD Ryzen 7 8700G and Ryzen 7 PRO 8700G
- AMD Ryzen 5 8500G, 8500GE, PRO 8500G
- AMD Ryzen 5 8600G, PRO 8600G, 8600GE
- And several high-performance mobile variants like AMD Ryzen 5/7 PRO 8640HS, 8640U, 8840HS, 8840U, and 8845HS, plus AMD Ryzen 7 PRO 8945HS
Why the Change?
One might wonder why Microsoft would drop support for processors that not only meet the initial requirements but have also served users reliably. Here are a few potential reasons:- Enhanced Security & Reliability: The primary goal is to ensure that newer devices can leverage the full spectrum of security features inherent in modern hardware designs. In today’s cybersecurity landscape, even a slight vulnerability can be a significant risk.
- Optimized Performance: Newer processors come with architectural improvements that can better handle the advanced features of Windows 11, including AI-driven enhancements and improved multitasking capabilities.
- Streamlining Updates: By narrowing the hardware base for the latest update, Microsoft may reduce complications that arise from supporting a wide range of architectures, ensuring a more cohesive and robust update process.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’re one of the many users who have built a trusted rig with one of Intel’s 8th, 9th, or 10th gen processors, brace yourself for a bit of a crossroads:- Sticking with Your Current Setup: Your system will continue to run Windows 11. However, it will not receive the Windows 11 24H2 update, meaning you might miss out on some of the newest features and security enhancements. Think of it like enjoying a classic vinyl record while the world shifts to high-fidelity streaming—you’re still in the groove, but you might not experience the latest hits.
- Upgrading Your Hardware: For those keen on keeping up with the latest update cycle, it might be time to consider a hardware refresh. Upgrading to a processor that meets the new baseline can future-proof your system and unlock advanced features designed to enhance your productivity and security.
Quick Check: How to Know Your CPU Generation
If you’re not sure which generation your Intel CPU belongs to, here’s a simple pointer:- On Windows 11: Open the Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc), go to the Performance tab, and click on CPU. Your CPU’s model information will be displayed; a quick online search for your model number should tell you which generation it belongs to.
- Manufacturer’s Specifications: Visit Intel’s official website and check their detailed specifications for the processor model you own.
Final Thoughts
Microsoft’s decision to drop support for the older Intel gestures marks not just a technical shift but a philosophical one too. It illustrates the company’s commitment to ensuring that the ever-evolving Windows 11 ecosystem isn’t bogged down by legacy hardware challenges. While the “Comet Lake” era will be fondly remembered by many for powering robust and cost-effective systems, embracing innovation sometimes means letting go of the past.For Windows enthusiasts, this is both a challenge and an opportunity—a chance to evaluate your current setup and possibly upgrade for enhanced security, performance, and compatibility with future Windows 11 updates. It might be the nudge needed to move towards a more modern computing environment that’s ready to meet the demands of tomorrow.
What are your thoughts? Will you stick with your current hardware, or are you already planning your next upgrade to join the new generation club? Share your experiences and join the discussion!
Stay tuned for more detailed analyses and guides on Windows updates and hardware support right here on WindowsForum.com.
Source: Wccftech https://wccftech.com/microsoft-drops-support-for-intels-10th-gen-processors-on-windows-11-24h2/
