Windows 11 compatibility: Microsoft's PC Health Check App is back

Windows Insiders can now access an updated PC Health Check app that aims to provide more utility than its previous iterations, which left many users confused over the state of their machine's eligibility for Windows 11.

Highlights--

• The Health Check app has been helping people determine whether their machines are eligible for Windows 11.

• It has had some issues with conveying feedback.

• Now, Insiders are getting an updated preview version set to clean up the app's shortcomings.

When Microsoft released the Windows 11 Insider preview earlier this summer, it did so with some confusion around minimum system requirements. It quickly reversed course, saying that more people could install the software update than its requirements originally stated so the company could gather more performance on how the OS performed.

Microsoft had previously removed the app due to reports that it didn't give people enough information about why their devices weren't compatible. Now, the app will tell you if your computer meets the requirements to run Windows 11, and if it doesn't, it will tell you why, and provide links for more support.

There is some good news for people running older hardware, though. According to The Verge, Microsoft won't prohibit computers running processors on its "supported" list from installing Windows 11 — they just won't be able to do so through the official Windows update software. You'll instead have to download a Windows 11 ISO file and install it yourself. The Verge says this method will primarily be for businesses to try Windows 11 and it won't be publicizing this method to standard users.

For those who are using a PC that won’t upgrade, and who aren’t ready to transition to a new device, Windows 10 is the right choice. Microsoft will support Windows 10 through October 14, 2025 and Microsoft recently announced that the next feature update to Windows 10 is coming later this year.

Microsoft will allow for a short feedback period wherein the updated version of the Health Check app will remain exclusive to Insiders. The company plans to release the revised app for general availability "in the coming weeks" following the Insider feedback period.

Microsoft Says that there are few notable changes in the system requirements, This means that you'll need a compatible 64-bit processor, 4GB of memory and 64GB of storage, as well as "UEFI secure boot, graphics requirements and TPM 2.0." For the most part, Microsoft is still requiring an 8th-generation or newer Intel processor, but the company is adding a few 7th-generation Intel options to the supported list, including Intel Core X-series, Xeon W-series and the Intel Core 7820HQ.

The new version of PC health check app should make it much clearer whether your computer is supported and, if not, what it needs to meet the Windows 11 system requirements.