Computer Geeks, what would you do?

[sam_gordon]

I'm not a "super geek". I've changed cards in machines, changed memory, added HD, so more than a "basic" user, but far from an expert.

My home desk computer is a HP Z400 I got from work when it was headed to the scrap heap. Xeon processor @ 3Ghz, 24G of RAM. Solid State C: drive. One internal 1Tb drive and two external 1Tb drives

While I use it for browsing the internet and light office work (daily), it also handles my photo and video editing. The video editing I've used to make recruiting videos for DS (now a Junior in college, so that's done), and family vacation recaps. So not a lot. The editing software I use was gifted to me, licensed, and I'm not sure how easy it is to move the license to a new computer.

Photo editing I mainly use for editing sports shots of the kids, and occasional side projects.

It has Win10 on it. You probably see where this is going. When I look to try to upgrade to Win11, the processor is not an an "authorized" one (although it is more capable than other allowed ones), so the automatic upgrade isn't an option.

I've upgraded DD's laptop that she was having problems with and got a new one, so I do have that laptop plus another one that's probably 5 years old, but neither have the processing power that the desktop does.

So, what do I do?

• Get a new computer but cut down on the specs and try to move everything?
• Use software to "fake" the requirements to upgrade to Win11? I've read about this, but haven't done a deep dive.
• Ride this computer out until it gives up?
• Change the processor (which I'd be worried about making sure I get a processor that works with the motherboard) to an "acceptable" one?
• Something else?

 

[kdonnel]

I never upgraded OS when I used Windows computers. That was the signal to me it was time for a new computer.

Having said that, computers have become more than capable and most people are over buying now.

From the options you presented I would pick ride it out.

 

[EACarlson]

Changing the processor probably isn't going to work. It's probably the socket type on the motherboard that is preventing the upgrade. So you'd have to update the MoBo, and probably the RAM in it too, which would then require a fresh copy of Windows instead of an upgrade path. What is it that you really want out of Windows 11? I think you'll have to choose what makes the most sense to you, rolling with Windows 10 or spending $1k+ for a similar machine with Win11.

 

[sam_gordon]

Changing the processor probably isn't going to work. It's probably the socket type on the motherboard that is preventing the upgrade. So you'd have to update the MoBo, and probably the RAM in it too, which would then require a fresh copy of Windows instead of an upgrade path. What is it that you really want out of Windows 11? I think you'll have to choose what makes the most sense to you, rolling with Windows 10 or spending $1k+ for a similar machine with Win11.

I don't really want Win11. I'm slightly concerned about lack of security updates for Win10.

 

[jimmymc]

I would ride it out for now. You have 11 more months of Windows 10 support, then you can see what the options would be for upgrading. Since you have a very capable, probably custom-ordered PC, I would suggest using software to get around the restriction or contacting Windows support.

 

[Nayan]

Honestly I would suggest a Mac. My first Mac, which is a laptop that I am using now to type this, is 10 years old and I still get security and other updates. My Mac Mini (desktop) is a powerhouse and can handle anything I throw at it and not break a sweat. Plus the Mini's are under $1K.

 

[sam_gordon]

Honestly I would suggest a Mac. My first Mac, which is a laptop that I am using now to type this, is 10 years old and I still get security and other updates. My Mac Mini (desktop) is a powerhouse and can handle anything I throw at it and not break a sweat. Plus the Mini's are under $1K.

I'm an Android guy. I'm not against Mac's, I'm against Mac price tags.

 

[Lewisc]

The upgrade wizard is lacking. See if there any upgrades available for YOUR BIOS and motherboard.
https://www.solveyourtech.com/how-to-turn-on-secure-boot-state-in-windows-11-a-step-by-step-guide/

Then see if you can enable secure boot. If so enable then run the upgrade wizard.
Forget about replacing the processor.

Check black Friday deals.

 

[Lewisc]

I don't think your processor is compatible. You need CPU, motherboard and memory. You might need windows and a new case. Use as is or buy a Black Friday deal? Do you use an internal CD/DVD drive. Many, almost all, current cases lack a.5.5.bay

 

[sam_gordon]

I don't think your processor is compatible. You need CPU, motherboard and memory. You might need windows and a new case. Use as is or buy a Black Friday deal? Do you use an internal CD/DVD drive. Many, almost all, current cases lack a.5.5.bay

I have an internal and (somewhere) external DVD drives. Couldn't tell you the last time I used them.

It's a shame that a 3Ghz processor and 24Gigs of memory isn't enough to run Win11.

Purchasing a new computer is not an option at this point.

 

[Lewisc]

It's a shame that a 3Ghz processor and 24Gigs of memory isn't enough to run Win11.

It is enough power. Your hardware doesn't have the security Win 11 requires.

I think the security includes DRM issues and protection from some malware.

Google. See what issues people who force the upgrade, with your hardware are experiencing.

You want to upgrade for security. Upgrading, with your hardware, creates security issues

Are you near a microcenter? You can get memory motherboard with CPU for $300 - 500 and up.

Id stick with what you have

 

[sam_gordon]

OK all, end of the line. Fortunately Amazon Prime Deals are here (for a day or so). I think I have a replacement narrowed down to two.

Geekom A6 ($380): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0DRP316J1/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=AD6U1U60F2RPP&th=1
BOSGAME P3 ($400): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0FJ5WG23R/ref=ewc_pr_img_3?smid=A1UEKL0SMIN854&th=1

Price is right. I think the specs are SLIGHTLY better on the Bosgame.

Wasn't particularly looking for a mini PC, but these seem decent (at least have decent reviews/ratings).

Thoughts on either?

 

[kdonnel]

I don't think either of those includes the OS so make sure you keep that in mind. Windows 11 looks to cost between $139 to $199 depending on version.

I would save the $18 and get the cheaper one and use that $18 to buy part of the Win 11 license.

 

[sam_gordon]

I don't think either of those includes the OS so make sure you keep that in mind. Windows 11 looks to cost between $139 to $199 depending on version.

I would save the $18 and get the cheaper one and use that $18 to buy part of the Win 11 license.

Geekcom:


Need to check on the other. I don't see it listed, but one of the videos I watched had it. It's worth confirming though!

Good thought!

ETA: Bosgame (just needed to look a little deeper):

 

[kdonnel]

Those are great deals then.

I know the last NUC I bought did not include an OS but my plan was to use it as a Linux server so it did not matter.