Why No One Is Using Windows 11

Summary

Windows 11, launched in 2021, has struggled to match the rapid adoption of Windows 10, currently holding a 30% market share. Strict system requirements, such as TPM 2.0 and specific CPU compatibility, have excluded many older PCs, while performance issues and lack of compelling new features have deterred upgrades. Despite being less unstable than previous versions like Vista, Windows 11's lack of optimization and excitement among users have made it hard to justify the upgrade. However, with Windows 10 support ending in 2025, more users may be forced into upgrading, even if they’re not thrilled about it.

Takeaways

• 😀 Windows 11 has gained around 30% market share, but its adoption rate is slower compared to Windows 10.
• 😀 Windows 10 became the most popular version about 2.5 years after its release, unlike Windows 11.
• 😀 A major barrier to Windows 11 adoption is its stringent system requirements, including TPM 2.0 chips and compatible CPUs.
• 😀 Many computers, even not very old, are excluded from running Windows 11 due to these requirements.
• 😀 TPM 2.0 enhances security but leaves older hardware behind, which frustrates users.
• 😀 Some users struggle with Windows 11 performance, including laggy UI elements, even on high-end systems.
• 😀 Microsoft has struggled with optimization issues in Windows 11, despite offering advanced security features like mode-based execution control.
• 😀 Unlike Windows 10, Windows 11 doesn’t have a major, compelling feature that motivates users to upgrade.
• 😀 Features like Auto HDR and centered taskbar icons are not enough to drive significant excitement around Windows 11.
• 😀 Many users still prefer Windows 10 because of its familiarity and stability, with little reason to switch to 11 for most tasks.
• 😀 Windows 10 will stop receiving updates in late 2025, which may push more users to upgrade to Windows 11 eventually.

Q & A

Why has Windows 11 seen slow adoption despite being released in 2021?

Windows 11's slow adoption can be attributed to several factors, including stringent system requirements, performance issues on modern hardware, lack of compelling new features, and users' contentment with Windows 10. Additionally, many people do not see a significant reason to upgrade, especially since Windows 10 still meets their needs.

What system requirements are limiting the adoption of Windows 11?

One of the major limiting factors for Windows 11 adoption is its requirement for TPM 2.0 chips and specific supported CPUs. These requirements prevent many users with relatively new but incompatible hardware from upgrading, even though their systems can run most tasks efficiently.

Why is TPM 2.0 considered an essential requirement for Windows 11?

TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) is essential for Windows 11 because it enhances security by providing a hardware-based encryption feature for sensitive data. Microsoft aims to improve the overall security of the OS with TPM 2.0, but it has resulted in excluding many systems that lack this feature.

Can users bypass Windows 11’s system requirements to install the OS?

Yes, it is possible to bypass some of Windows 11's system requirements, like TPM 2.0 and unsupported CPUs, by using workarounds. However, this comes with risks, such as potentially missing critical updates or running into issues with update installations, which may be a deterrent for non-technical users.

Have there been any performance issues reported with Windows 11 on modern hardware?

Yes, some users, even those with high-end systems, have reported performance issues, such as lag in basic functions like the Start menu. For example, a Microsoft engineer demonstrated poor performance on a system with a Core i9 CPU and 128 GB of RAM, highlighting that Windows 11 may not be fully optimized for all hardware configurations.

What new features in Windows 11 have been met with mixed reactions?

Features like Auto HDR, Co-pilot AI, and a centered taskbar have not been widely embraced by users. Many feel these features don't offer enough of a compelling reason to upgrade from Windows 10, which already performs well for most tasks.

How does Windows 10 compare to Windows 11 in terms of user experience?

Windows 10 has been widely regarded as a user-friendly OS, especially compared to Windows 8, which was criticized for its tablet-like interface. Windows 10's more traditional desktop UI made it a popular choice, and for many users, Windows 10 continues to meet their needs. Windows 11's incremental changes have not generated the same level of excitement.

Why did Windows 10 see a quicker rise in popularity compared to Windows 11?

Windows 10 gained rapid popularity because it was a welcome return to a more familiar and practical desktop UI, addressing the frustrations users had with Windows 8's tablet-like interface. The eagerness to move away from Windows 8 contributed to Windows 10’s quick adoption, whereas Windows 11 lacks a similarly compelling reason for users to upgrade.

What is the end-of-life date for Windows 10, and how might this affect Windows 11 adoption?

Windows 10 will stop receiving updates in late 2025. This deadline is likely a driving factor behind the gradual increase in Windows 11's market share, as users will eventually be forced to upgrade to continue receiving security updates and other essential support.

Is Windows 11 expected to become more popular as time goes on?

Yes, Windows 11's market share is expected to rise, especially as the support for Windows 10 ends in 2025. However, its adoption rate will depend on whether Microsoft addresses performance issues, optimizes the OS for a wider range of hardware, and introduces compelling features that encourage users to make the switch.