Windows 11 version 2024H2 will no longer run on very old PCs
Microsoft is set to release a new update for Windows 11 called Windows 11 version 2024H2, and it comes with some changes that will prevent very old PCs from running the operating system. Previously, Windows 11 could be installed on unsupported PCs that did not meet the minimum security requirements, but with this update, Microsoft is tightening the restrictions.
The upcoming Windows 11 version 2024H2 will require CPUs that comply with the POPCNT (population count) instruction. This means that PCs that are more than 15 years old and cannot officially run Windows 11 will not be able to support the new version. The POPCNT instruction became standard on CPUs in the mid-2000s, so most PCs launched in the past 15 years should meet this requirement.
However, some users have managed to run Windows 11 on older machines like those running Intel Core 2 Duo processors, albeit with slower performance and longer boot times. These machines were able to access some of the latest features of Windows 11. But with the next Windows update, even these old machines will be unable to boot Windows 11.
If users have been running Windows 11 unofficially on unsupported machines, they will have no choice but to purchase a modern PC if they wish to install the update. Alternatively, they can continue running the older version of Windows 11 without updating, but that may be difficult as important updates are necessary to support all features. PCs that are old but not older than 15 years, such as those running Intel 7th Gen or AMD Ryzen 1000 series CPUs, will not be impacted as they comply with the POPCNT instruction.
The upcoming Windows 11 version 2024H2, based on the Germanium version of the Windows platform, is expected to bring generative AI features and an advanced Copilot. As the next major upgrade, it will be rolling out soon.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s new Windows 11 version 2024H2 update will prevent very old PCs from booting the operating system. Users will need CPUs that comply with the POPCNT instruction, which means PCs older than 15 years will no longer be supported. The update will enforce these requirements, and users running Windows 11 unofficially on unsupported machines will have to upgrade to a modern PC or continue using the older version without updates. The upcoming Windows 11 version 2024H2 will bring new features and is based on the Germanium version of the Windows platform.
