Windows 11 & TPM 2.0: Why It’s Critical for Future PC Security
With the end of support for Windows 10 on the horizon, increasing attention is being directed toward transitioning to Windows 11, where one of the primary system requirements is the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0. This component ensures hardware-level data protection and facilitates cryptographic operations.
The TPM is a hardware-based or integrated module designed to provide device-level security. Its primary functions include storing encryption keys, certificates, and other sensitive data, as well as performing cryptographic operations such as encryption, decryption, and digital signature creation.
Microsoft emphasizes that TPM 2.0 enhances cryptographic capabilities and integrates seamlessly with Secure Boot and Windows Hello for Business. The company also notes that TPM 2.0 helps safeguard data amidst the rapid evolution of AI and emerging technologies in cloud and server architectures.
Despite its advantages, some Windows users have developed tools and scripts to bypass the TPM requirement. However, Microsoft cautions that future system functionality cannot be guaranteed without the module. Representatives assert that disabling TPM checks on devices running Windows 11 is inadvisable due to escalating cybersecurity threats.
Although support for Windows 10 is slated to end on October 14, 2025, the operating system remains in use on 61% of devices worldwide. Windows 11, launched in October 2021, is currently installed on less than 35% of systems.
Market Share of Windows Versions:
- Windows 10: 61.82%
- Windows 11: 34.94%
- Windows 7: 2.47%
- Windows 8.1: 0.31%
- Windows XP: 0.25%
- Windows 8: 0.16%
For users of Windows 10 Home, Microsoft will offer an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for $30, available in 2025, providing an additional year to transition to the new system.
Long-Term Servicing Branch (LTSB) and Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) editions, tailored for specialized medical or industrial devices, will continue to receive updates beyond October 2025. For instance, Windows 10 2016 LTSB will remain supported until October 13, 2026, while Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 will be supported until January 13, 2032.
Additionally, Microsoft has announced the rollout of Windows 11 24H2 to more compatible devices. Availability can be checked via the “Settings” section under the “Windows Update” menu.
