WhyNotWin11 for Windows

Overview of the utility

WhyNotWin11 is a free, portable compatibility checker created by independent developer Robert C. Maehl (rcmaehl). It’s a small program (under ~3 MB) that you can run on a Windows 10 PC to quickly determine whether the machine meets Microsoft’s Windows 11 minimum requirements.

How the scanner operates

Run the executable and the utility performs a hardware and firmware inspection — typically finishing in under a minute. After the scan completes, it displays a checklist-style report that shows which requirements your system satisfies and which ones it does not. The output helps pinpoint the specific component or setting preventing an install of Windows 11.

Primary compatibility checkpoints

WhyNotWin11 checks the standard Windows 11 entry criteria. Notable items it verifies include:

• TPM version (Trusted Platform Module, typically TPM 2.0)
• Graphics/DirectX support (DirectX 12 compatible with WDDM 2.x)
• Processor model and whether it’s on Microsoft’s supported CPU list
• Amount of system memory (minimum 4 GB)
• Available storage (minimum 64 GB)
• UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability
• 64-bit processor architecture (x64)
• Display resolution and size (e.g., HD 720p and minimum diagonal)
• Motherboard firmware settings and boot mode (UEFI vs legacy BIOS)
• Compatibility of integrated or discrete graphics drivers
• Internet and Microsoft account requirements for certain Windows 11 editions

Alternative and comparison

Microsoft’s updated PC Health Check app now offers a similar compatibility report, so you can choose either tool based on preference. WhyNotWin11 is useful when you want a quick, portable check without installing anything; PC Health Check is an official option that integrates with Microsoft’s update paths.

Final notes

If you’re curious about upgrading, run the scanner to see a concise explanation of any blockers. The report helps you determine whether a firmware change, hardware upgrade, or staying on Windows 10 is the best path forward.