By Martin Jansen, Owner of Jansen-PCINFO
Microsoft has been driving me nuts lately. After 6 years of Windows 10, Microsoft is working on a new version called Windows 11. That would be great, but Microsoft has a dubious past when it comes to releasing new operating systems. For home users, Windows 7 was the best operating system ever made by Microsoft which was followed by the dismal Windows 8. Before that we had the wonderful and light Windows XP followed by the terribly heavy Windows Vista. It goes on and on. So it is with some trepidation that I see Windows 11 on the horizon.
TPM Required
Microsoft is adding a requirement to run Windows 11 that many had not anticipated. TPM or Trusted Platform Module is a small security related chip that must be added to the motherboard of desktops and laptops in order to install Microsoft 11. In order to save a customer money, I often recommend purchasing refurbished older computers. Since TPM is relatively new, I can only recommend computers that were made in the last couple of years. In effect, Microsoft is hoping you will purchase new, expensive computers with Windows 11 installed. Older computers without TPM need not apply and should be recycled.
It’s Personal
My daughter recently approached me about purchasing a “new” computer so she can work from home more efficiently. The last thing I want to do is steer my daughter wrong. Computer prices are still artificially high since the pandemic, although the prices have dropped a little. With Windows 11 looming, I am hesitant to recommend a refurbished desktop computer for her that will last more than a few years. I’m going to recommend that she contact her company’s IT department for their guidelines on a suitable desktop computer.
Alternatives
Of course there are alternatives to Microsoft. Apple has some fine computers featuring their new M1 chip. Higher end Chromebooks and Chromeboxes are also available. Linux MInt 20.1 Cinnamon based on Ubuntu is my operating system of choice. There are many other flavors of Linux available and none require a TPM chip as of this writing.
Bottom Line
If my daughter’s work recommends Windows and a certain browser, I won’t “rock the boat.” I will help her purchase a computer that meets or exceeds their recommendations. Every Dad wants their children to be successful.
If she can wait a year she will see better computers for lower costs. Chip shortage should catch up by then. If her wonderful father can help her get going on Linux, that’s where she should land.