As Windows 10’s end of support approaches, Microsoft doubles down on security requirements for its latest operating system.
The TPM 2.0 Requirement: What You Need to Know
Microsoft has recently reinforced its stance on TPM 2.0 requirements for Windows 11, declaring it a “non-negotiable” standard for the future of Windows. But what exactly is TPM 2.0, and why is Microsoft so adamant about it?
TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module 2.0) is essentially a security powerhouse – a dedicated processor in modern computers that provides hardware-based security functions. Think of it as your computer’s security vault, storing sensitive data like encryption keys and security credentials.
Why Microsoft Won’t Budge
Senior product manager Steven Hosking emphasized the crucial role of TPM 2.0 in his recent article, highlighting how it enhances:
- Identity and data protection
- System integrity
- Protection against modern cyber threats
- Future AI capabilities integration
“TPM 2.0 is essential to counteracting present-day cyber risks,” Hosking stated, strongly advising against disabling TPM checks on Windows 11 endpoints.
The Current Windows Landscape
Despite Microsoft’s push for Windows 11 adoption, the numbers tell an interesting story:
- Over 61% of Windows systems worldwide still run Windows 10
- Less than 35% run Windows 11, three years after its launch
What This Means for Windows 10 Users
With Windows 10’s end of support looming on October 14, 2025, users have some decisions to make. Microsoft has thrown a lifeline to home users, offering a one-year Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for $30. This gives users without TPM 2.0-capable systems some breathing room.
Special Cases
Some specialized systems will continue receiving updates beyond October 2025:
- Windows 10 2016 LTSB: Support until October 13, 2026
- Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021: Support until January 13, 2032
Latest Windows 11 Updates
In related news, Windows 11 24H2 is now being rolled out to more eligible devices running versions 22H2 and 23H2. Users can check for the update through Settings > Windows Update.
The Bottom Line
While some users have found ways to bypass the TPM 2.0 requirement, Microsoft’s stance is clear: TPM 2.0 is here to stay as a fundamental security requirement for Windows 11. As cyber threats evolve, this hardware-based security approach appears to be Microsoft’s chosen path forward.
