Processors supported by Windows 11: lists, requirements, and all the new features in 2025

Decide if your computer is compatible with Windows 11 has become a real puzzle for many users. Since its launch, Microsoft's operating system has generated controversy and confusion around the processors that can run itIf you're wondering whether your CPU is on the compatibility list, whether you need to upgrade your computer, or don't understand why some relatively newer computers are left out, this article has all the answers. We offer a comprehensive guide to compatibility lists, the latest updates, and how you can check and improve your computer's compatibility with Windows 11.

Before you go searching for models, here is the most detailed article possible, compiled from official information from Microsoft, technology media and specialized blogs, so you know What processors does Windows 11 support in 2025?Plus, you'll find practical tips for dealing with the end of Windows 10 support and how to take advantage of Microsoft's new expanded support lists.

Why is the processor so important in Windows 11?

One of the key aspects of Windows 11 is that, unlike previous versions, Microsoft has considerably tightened the minimum requirements for hardware. Processor It has become the main filter to know if your computer can run the operating system, since compatibility depends not only on power, but also on aspects such as security (TPM 2.0), support for new standards and the reliability long term.

From now on, if your PC does not meet the processor requirements, You won't even receive automatic update notifications and you could be left without security updates. With the Windows 10 end of support Already announced for October of this year, knowing if your computer is ready to upgrade to Windows 11 is no longer a curiosity: it is a real need.

How does Microsoft update the list of supported processors?

The first thing you should know is that Microsoft regularly publishes official lists of supported processors for Windows 11, which include CPUs of Intel, AMD, Qualcomm and other brands. These lists are not static: they are reviewed and expanded every time there is a new general release of the operating system, so if your processor is not listed yet, it may be included in future updates.

Microsoft itself acknowledges that these lists may be somewhat behind the latest models coming onto the market. If your processor meets the principles of safety, compatibility and reliability, even if it is not on the list, It is possible that it will receive official support later..

The list particularly affects the OEM manufacturers (who assemble and sell new computers with Windows pre-installed). If you buy a computer in parts, you can have more room for maneuver.

Intel processors compatible with Windows 11

Intel It's the most widely used manufacturer and, at the same time, the one that has caused the most confusion. Throughout 2024 and 2025, Microsoft has been making and unmaking changes to its listings, adding and removing entire generations of processors. Here's a summary of the current situation:

• Intel Core 8th generation and later: All 3th-generation Core i5, i7, i9, and i8 processors or higher are officially supported. Although the 9th, 10th, and 2025th generations were once removed from the list, Microsoft finally reinstated them in the February XNUMX update.
• Meteor Lake and Raptor Lake processors: The latest processors, such as the Core Ultra series (Meteor Lake) and Raptor Lake (13th and 14th generation), are fully supported. Models such as the Core Ultra 5 125H, Core Ultra 7 155H, Core i9-14900K, Core i7-14700HX, and Core i5-14600 have been included in the latest revisions.
• Low-end models and servers: Celeron, Pentium Gold, some Xeon and the newer Atom processors are also listed, provided that meet safety requirements.
• Compatibility by equipment type: For enterprise devices and servers (Windows Server, IoT), lists and models vary, so it's a good idea to check their specific listings.

Among the most prominent and sought-after models by users, we can mention:

• Core i3-8100, i5-8400, i7-8700, i9-9900K
• Core i3-10100, i5-10400, i7-10700K, i9-10900
• Core i5-12400, i7-12700K, i9-12900K
• Core Ultra 5 125H, Core Ultra 7 155H, Core Ultra 9 185H
• All 13xxx and 14xxx series, including Core i9-13900KS, i7-13700K, i5-13600K

New additions and recent changes to the listings

Over the past few months, Microsoft has made significant changes to the lists of supported CPUs, according to information published on specialized websites and official notes. After a highly controversial move where Intel's 8th, 9th, and 10th generation processors were removed from the lists, pressure from users and manufacturers has led to their reinclusion. This affects both upgrades of old equipment as well as the sale of new devices by OEMs.

Recent developments include the adoption of the new Meteor Lake (Core Ultra) ranges and expansions to support processors launched in 2025, as well as the incorporation of business and server models in the compatibility catalogs.

Microsoft generally does not strictly block the use of older CPUs for new OEM computers, so if you have technical experience, it may be possible. install Windows 11 with unofficial hardware, although with certain risks.

What's happening with AMD CPUs? Compatibility and new features

In the case of AMDMicrosoft has established compatibility starting from the Ryzen 2000 series onwards, which includes families such as Ryzen 3, 5, 7 and 9, the Threadripper series and the latest laptop and desktop ranges.

• All Ryzen 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000, 7000 and 8000 series supported.
• Includes popular processors like Ryzen 5 2600, Ryzen 7 3700X, Ryzen 5 5600X, Ryzen 9 5900X, plus Threadripper and models for portable (U and H).
• Recently, the Ryzen 8000 has been added, while the Ryzen 9000 and Ryzen AI Max+ are still pending update on the official list.

If you have an AMD Ryzen 2000 or higher, you can rest assured about compatibility. Support remains stable and continuously growing.

Processors from other brands and special cases

While most home and business devices use Intel or AMD, Microsoft also publishes lists for other manufacturers such as Qualcomm (ARM processors), some Hygon models (destined for the Chinese market), and specific Xeon and Atom models for servers and IoT devices. For these cases, it's advisable to consult the official tables and keep in mind that updates may take time to reflect the latest models.

How do you know if your processor is compatible?

The easiest way to check this is to look up the exact model of your processor in the official lists published by Microsoft. You can access them from the Microsoft website and use the search bar (Control + F) to locate your CPU. In addition, Microsoft offers the PC Health Check tool (https://aka.ms/GetPCHealthCheckApp), which analyzes your hardware and tells you if you meet the requirements to install Windows 11.

What if your processor isn't listed?

Although Microsoft's list is the main reference, your CPU may not be listed there. It doesn't necessarily mean that you can't install Windows 11.. There are alternative methods to force installation on "unsupported" processors, such as using software creation tools. USB bootable or edit the registry and modify the installer to bypass checks. However, Microsoft does not officially recommend these methods., and doing so involves risks of instability and loss of support in future updates.

If you have technical experience and are willing to accept the risks, these options can be helpful in extending the life of your hardware.

Updates, support, and key requirements for Windows 11

In addition to the CPU, you must meet other minimum requirements for your computer to run Windows 11:

• A compatible processor, as indicated above.
• TPM 2.0 enabled and support of Boot Safety.
• At least 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage procedure.
• DirectX 12 or later compatible graphics card and HD monitor.

A common problem is that some older computers have the TPM 2.0 disabled at factoryIn these cases, it is usually enough to access the BIOS and enable it manually to be able to install Windows 11.

Server Processors and IoT: Advanced Compatibility

The enterprise and server editions (such as Windows Server 2016, 2019, 2022, 2025, IoT Enterprise, and Core) have specific lists of models that certify compatibility. These lists are updated on a different schedule, tied to hardware certification and the needs of the business environment. It's a good idea to consult the official documentation if you manage servers or industrial devices.