How to install Windows 11 your way (and avoid Microsoft's restrictions)

Screenshot by Lance Whitney/ZDNET Microsoft wants you to upgrade to Windows 11, but the company doesn't make it easy. The latest version of Windows imposes strict hardware and security requirements, ruling out older PCs that don't make the grade and forcing you to buy a new system. Plus, the software giant makes it almost impossible to use a local account with a new Windows 11 installation. But with Windows 10 losing support this coming October, you'll need to upgrade to Windows 11 if you want to retain Microsoft's help and get the latest security patches, bug fixes, and other updates. So, what can you do if you want to move to Windows 11 but are facing Microsoft's restrictions? Also: How to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11 To update my older PCs, I use Rufus, a handy and free Windows installation tool. Designed to run or install Windows from a USB drive, Rufus will help you sneak past Microsoft's most stringent requirements. You can tell Rufus to sidestep th ... Read full article.