If Windows 11 says the PC does not meet requirements, start there first. A device that does not meet the minimum system requirements can show upgrade problems and app compatibility issues.
- Check whether the PC can run Windows 11.
- Use the PC Health Check app to verify compatibility.
- If the PC does not meet the minimum requirements, consider moving to a new Windows 11 device.
- If Windows 11 is already installed, try the built-in app fixes in this order.
- Close and reopen the app.
- Go to Start > Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates and install any available updates.
- Open Microsoft Store > Library > Get updates to update Microsoft Store.
- Repair or reset the affected app.
- If needed, reinstall the app from Microsoft Store > Library.
- If apps from outside Microsoft Store are being blocked, check app install settings.
- Go to Start > Settings > Apps > Advanced app settings.
- Under Choose where to get apps, select Anywhere.
- If preferred, use Anywhere, but let me know if there’s a comparable app in the Microsoft Store.
- If it is set to The Microsoft Store only (Recommended), non-Store apps can be blocked.
- If Windows updates will not install, try the general upgrade fixes.
- Unplug nonessential hardware such as printers, scanners, USB drives, and external hard drives.
- If using a laptop dock, undock it.
- Make sure all important Windows updates and hardware driver updates are installed.
- Uninstall non-Microsoft antivirus software before upgrading. Reinstall it after the upgrade if needed.
- Uninstall old or nonessential software that could interfere with the upgrade.
- If the PC is older or unsupported, the simplest path may be a newer Windows 11 PC.
- When moving to a new PC, reinstall programs fresh rather than trying to move installed apps.
- Personal files can be moved with OneDrive or by copying them to an external drive or USB drive.
- If trying to install mobile apps specifically, note that the Amazon Appstore and Windows Subsystem for Android are not available in Microsoft Store starting March 5, 2025.
Important:
- Installing Windows 11 on a current PC requires meeting the minimum system requirements.
- Installing Windows 11 on a current PC overwrites the contents of the existing hard drive, so files should be backed up first.
- Some older apps may not have a Windows 11-compatible version.
References:
- Getting ready for the Windows 11 upgrade
- Fix problems with apps from Microsoft Store
- Change your app recommendation settings in Windows
- Get help with Windows upgrade and installation errors
- What does it mean if Windows isn't supported?
- Windows 10 support on Intel Clover Trail chipsets ended on January 10, 2023
- Install mobile apps and the Amazon Appstore on Windows