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If you’ve tried to update to Windows 11 24H2, you might’ve run into a wall.

Microsoft’s latest feature update brings some genuinely useful improvements — from better performance to built-in AI enhancements — but many users are finding that 24H2 just isn’t available for their devices.

And it’s not because their systems are broken. It’s because Microsoft has quietly raised the hardware bar again.

So, what can you do if your PC doesn’t meet the new minimum requirements — but is still running Windows 11 perfectly well?

There’s a solution. And no, it doesn’t involve wiping your drive or doing a clean install.

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🚫 The Problem: Unsupported Hardware, No Update

Many users on older PCs or laptops (still totally usable and running Windows 11 23H2 just fine) are discovering that 24H2 simply won’t show up in Windows Update.

Why? Because Microsoft is starting to restrict access based on updated CPU and TPM requirements, and it’s cutting off a growing list of hardware, even if those systems previously ran Windows 11 with no trouble.

That means you’re left behind — unless you know the workaround.

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✅ The Solution: Use Rufus — But Here’s the Twist Most Posts Miss

There are lots of articles showing you how to use Rufus to bypass hardware checks and do a clean install of Windows 11.

But what many don’t mention clearly is this:
You can use Rufus to create a USB installer, then run the upgrade in-place — without formatting or losing your files, apps, or settings.

This is a massive deal for users and businesses who want the latest version but don’t want the hassle of a full wipe and reinstall.

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🔧 Advanced Guide: Step-by-Step Instructions to Install Windows 11 24H2 on Unsupported PCs Without Wiping Your Drive

If you’re comfortable with tools like Rufus and ISO files, here’s a clear walkthrough for upgrading in place to Windows 11 24H2 — even on unsupported hardware — without performing a clean install.

This method allows you to bypass hardware checks and run the setup directly from within Windows, preserving all your files, apps, and settings.

🧩 What You’ll Need:

• A USB stick (8GB or larger, formatted)
• The latest Windows 11 ISO
• The latest version of Rufus
• A PC currently running Windows 11 (even if it’s unsupported for 24H2)

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⚠️ A Few Notes to Keep in Mind:

• 💾 Backup your data before starting, just to be safe.
• 💡 This method works best if you’re already running Windows 11 22H2 or 23H2.
• 🔐 You’ll still receive most updates from Microsoft, but some future builds may not show via Windows Update on unsupported systems.
• 🧰 If you’re in a business setting or managing multiple machines, this method can save hours of downtime — but it should always be tested on a non-critical system first.

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✅ Step-by-Step Process:

Step 1: Download the Windows 11 ISO

Head over to Microsoft’s official download page:

👉 Download Windows 11 ISO

Scroll to the Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) section, choose Windows 11 (multi-edition ISO), and select your language.

Step 2: Download and Open Rufus

Go to the official Rufus website and download the latest version:

👉 Download Rufus

Open Rufus — no installation needed.

Step 3: Prepare the Bootable USB with Rufus

• Plug in your USB stick.
• In Rufus:
  • Device: Select your USB drive.
  • Boot selection: Choose the Windows 11 ISO you just downloaded.
• Click Start.

✔️ Important: When prompted, Rufus will ask if you want to remove requirements for TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and minimum RAM/CPU.
✅ Tick all the boxes to disable these checks.

Let Rufus complete the writing process. Once it says “Ready,” your USB is good to go.

Step 4: Launch the Upgrade from Within Windows

• Don’t reboot or boot from USB.
• Instead, with your USB drive plugged in, open File Explorer and navigate to it.
• Run setup.exe directly from the USB stick.

The Windows 11 setup will launch just like a standard upgrade.

✔️ When prompted:

• Choose “Keep personal files and apps”
• Proceed with the upgrade

Windows will go through the update process just like any other feature update, and you’ll reboot into 24H2 with your files and apps exactly where you left them.

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🧠 Why This Matters

This method:

• Keeps your current setup exactly how it is
• Avoids the downtime and disruption of a clean install
• Lets you benefit from 24H2 — even on hardware Microsoft thinks is too old

For small businesses and home users alike, that’s a massive win. Especially when budgets are tight and working systems don’t need replacing.

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⚠️ Important Notes (We’re Not Just Clicking Buttons Here)

While this workaround is effective, there are a few things to be aware of:

• You’re bypassing official hardware checks, which means Microsoft may not offer full support or future updates on these systems.
• This method won’t magically make older hardware faster, but it does keep it relevant for a little longer.
• You should always back up your files before doing any kind of system upgrade — just in case.

At System Plus, we’ve helped many local businesses with upgrades like this where replacing hardware isn’t practical, but users still want the latest features and performance.

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🧩 Final Thoughts

Microsoft may be making it harder for older systems to stay on the cutting edge — but there are still smart ways to extend the life of good machines without the drama of a full reinstall.

If you’re confident with tools like Rufus and understand the risks, this is a straightforward way to bring your older Windows 11 PC into the 24H2 era without starting from scratch.

Not sure whether your system will take the update — or want a hand getting it done safely? We’re always here to help.

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#Windows11 #24H2 #UnsupportedPCs #UpgradeWithoutWipe #TechTips #SystemPlusuk #WindowsUpdate #Rufus #EastYorkshireIT #WindowsWorkaround

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About the Author
Richard Eborall is an experienced IT specialist with over 20 years in the industry, helping businesses across East Yorkshire and beyond navigate the ever-evolving world of technology. As the founder of System Plus, Richard specialises in managed IT services, cybersecurity, and cloud solutions, ensuring businesses stay secure, efficient, and ahead of the curve. Connect with Richard on LinkedIn to stay up to date with the latest in business IT.