The presence of a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) is required for Microsoft’s future Windows 11 operating system, which has sparked a storm of doubt and concern.
When compared to Windows 10 and prior versions of the operating system, Microsoft has significantly increased the system requirements for Windows 11. Hardware requirements for the latest OS update include a 1GHz processor and at least 4GB RAM, but that’s not all. TPM requirements will very certainly be required in Windows 11.
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What Is TPM?
The TPM is a tiny chip on the motherboard of your computer that is sometimes distinct from the main CPU and memory. The chip is similar to the keypad you use to turn off your home security alarm every time you go through the door, or the authenticator software you use to connect into your bank account on your phone. Turning on your computer is equivalent to unlocking your front door or putting your username and password into the login screen in this case. Alarms will sound or you will be unable to access your money if you do not enter a code within a limited period of time. So it’s all about safety.
TPMs work by offering hardware-based protection rather than software-based protection. It can be used to encrypt data carriers using Windows features like BitLocker or to protect passwords from dictionary attacks. TPM 1.2 chips have been on the market since 2011, however, they are normally only found in IT-managed business laptops and workstations. Microsoft wants to provide everyone who uses Windows with the same level of security, even if it isn’t always flawless.
Microsoft had already issued a warning about the increase in firmware attacks. When you look at the myriad phishing, ransomware, supply chain, and IoT vulnerabilities that exist, the enormous range of threats becomes clear. Ransomware attacks make the news every week, and ransomware funds more ransomware, making it a challenging challenge to solve. TPMs will definitely help in some attacks, but Microsoft plans to resist them using a combination of modern processors, Secure Boot, and its own security software.
Microsoft is doing its share, especially because Windows is the most commonly targeted platform for cyber-attacks. It is widely used by businesses all over the world, with over 1.3 billion Windows 10 machines in use right now. Microsoft is promoting TPM 2.0, and testing is being carried out on Intel 8th generation or newer chips, as these are the requirements for authorized OEM hardware, which are the laptops you see in stores with the Windows 11 logo.
Enabling TPM
If you have a current system that does not display the TPM management screen, it is likely that your machine supports TPM but has not yet been enabled. If you have a PC that you built yourself, this is considerably more likely. You’ll need to go into the BIOS settings and seek the TPM setting to enable it. Your BIOS settings will vary depending on the brand and model of your motherboard but seek an option that reads TPM or PTT (Platform Trust Technology), which is normally found under an ‘Advanced’ tab somewhere. After you’ve activated TPM, double-check your TPM version to make sure you’re ready for Windows 11.