Can Windows 11 Run on MBR? A Guide to Installing Windows 11 on MBR in 2024

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Yes, Windows 11 can run on an MBR partition, but it is recommended to use theGUID Partition Table (GPT) for newer systems, especially if you plan to take advantage of features like Secure Boot and Windows 11's requirements for a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0. However, for older systems or in specific circumstances, it is possible to install Windows 11 on an MBR disk.

MBR stands for Master Boot Record. The MBR contains information about the operating system and helps the computer boot or load the OS into memory for execution. In simple terms, the MBR is crucial for getting the operating system up and running.

As for the issue, Windows 11 can indeed run on MBR, but only as a second disk. This means you cannot have MBR as your primary disk for Windows 11. Unfortunately, Microsoft has set requirements for GPT (GUID Partition Table) and UEFI configuration, along with Secure Boot, to support running and installing Windows 11.

Therefore, you need to install Windows 11 with GPT as the OS disk type. However, MBR can work as a second drive with Windows 11. If you don't have a GPT disk, don't worry. Now, let's see how to install Windows 11 on an MBR partition.

How to Install Windows 11 on an MBR Partition

If you have an MBR disk and want to run Windows 11, our article will help you make it happen. Be sure to read through carefully and don't miss any steps.

1. Check if your PC meets the Windows 11 system requirements

Before installing Windows 11, you need to ensure that your computer meets the minimum system requirements for running Windows 11. Here's a list of the system and hardware requirements for installing Windows 11: 1. **Processor**: A 1 GHz (gigahertz) or faster 2-core processor or System on a Chip (SoC). 2. **RAM**: At least 4 GB (gigabytes) of RAM. 3. **Storage**: 64 GB (gigabytes) or larger storage device. 4. **Graphics card**: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later, with WDDM 2.0 driver. 5. **Display**: High definition (720p) display, greater than 9-inch diagonal, 8 bits per color channel. 6. **Secure Boot**: Enabled on supported UEFI firmware. 7. **TPM**: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0. 8. **Internet connection & Microsoft account**: An Internet connection is required for the initial setup, updates, and to activate Windows. A Microsoft account is needed for certain features. Additionally, your device should be running Windows 10, Version 20H2 or later, and it should be up to date with all available updates. Please note that these requirements may vary depending on the specific edition of Windows 11 you're installing and the intended use of your device. It's always a good idea to check the official Microsoft website for the most up-to-date information.

• Available storage: You need to have at least 64 GB or more of free space on your C drive to install Windows 11.
• TPM 2.0 enabled: Your system needs to have a TPM (Trusted Platform Module) that supports running Windows 11. If it's disabled, don't worry; the following sections will guide you on how to enable it.
• UEFI and Secure Boot supported in BIOS: As mentioned, Microsoft requires UEFI and Secure Boot support in the BIOS for installing Windows 11. So, make sure this requirement is met before proceeding with the installation.
• OS drive is of GPT disk type: Your operating system drive should be of the GPT type to install Windows 11. However, don't worry, as this article specifically covers how to install Windows 11 on an MBR partition.

2. Converting the Disk from MBR to GPT for Installing Windows 11

Unfortunately, you can't bypass Microsoft's restriction on MBR during the Windows 11 installation. However, you can convert an MBR disk to GPT to install Windows 11. The process is much easier than it looks, and you can accomplish it effortlessly with the help of a tool – Partition Master Pro. No need to panic.

Partition Master provides an all-in-one solution to help you convert MBR disk partitions to GPT format. It also offers many features to perform other partition management and creation tasks.

Thus, download Partition Master and follow the steps below to convert disk from MBR to GPT:

Step 1. Download and run Partition Master on your computer.

Step 2. Launch the disk converter, select "Convert MBR to GPT," and click "Next" to proceed.

Step 3. Select the target MBR disk that you want to convert to GPT and click "Convert" to start the conversion.

3. Setting Up Your Computer for Windows 11 Installation

Before installation, there's an important step you need to take: configure your Windows boot mode and enable TPM 2.0. Let's see how.

The steps to enable Secure Boot mode can vary depending on your device's manufacturer and model. However, here's a general process for Windows devices: 1. **Restart your computer:** - Press the power button to turn off your computer, then press it again to start it up. 2. **Enter BIOS or UEFI firmware settings:** - While your computer is starting up, press the designated key to enter BIOS or UEFI setup. This key could be F2, F10, F12, Delete, or another key, depending on your device. It typically displays on the initial screen during startup. 3. **Locate the "Secure Boot" option:** - In the BIOS/UEFI settings, navigate through the menus to find the "Security" or "Boot" section. You should spot the "Secure Boot" setting there. 4. **Enable Secure Boot:** - Select the "Secure Boot" option and switch its status from "Disabled" to "Enabled." 5. **Set an administrator password (optional):** - For extra security, you might want to set an admin password in the BIOS/UEFI settings. This prevents unauthorized modifications to the boot settings. 6. **Save and Exit:** - Look for an option like "Exit" or "Save Changes" and choose it. Confirm that you want to save the changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI setup. 7. **Your computer will automatically restart:** - After saving the changes, your device will restart with Secure Boot enabled. Keep in mind that these steps are a general guide and might vary slightly for different devices. Check your device's user manual or the manufacturer's website for specific instructions.

Step 1: Go to “Settings” and choose “Update & Security.” There, select the “Recovery” option.

Step 2: Under Advanced startup, click on Restart now.

Click the “Restart Now” button.

Step 3: After the restart, choose Troubleshoot from the Advanced Startup menu.

Step 4: Click on Advanced settings.

Step 5: You'll need to select the UEFI Firmware Settings option.

Step 6: Click the Restart button.

Step 7: You need to access the Boot or Security Settings page. There, look for the Secure Boot option and press the Enter key once you locate it.

Step 8: Select the Enabled option, and then press Enter.

Step 9: Exit the UEFI settings after verifying the changes.

Your system will now reboot, enabling Secure Boot on your PC.

### Enabling TPM 2.0

The first step is to go back into Settings and choose Update & Security. From there, you need to select the Recovery option.

Step 2: Restart from Advanced startup.

Click the **Restart now** button. 

Step 3: Select “Troubleshoot.”

Click on Troubleshoot.

Step 4: Go to the Advanced options.

Step 5: You now need to access the UEFI firmware settings.

Step 6: Click the Restart button.

Step 7: You'll be taken to the Startup or Secure Boot settings page.

Step 8: Next, select the Change TPM state option and press Enter. Choose Enable and press Enter again.

Step 9: Exit the UEFI setup and save your changes.

Your system will now restart. It will enable TPM for the Windows 11 installation.

4. Download and Install Windows 11 using an ISO file

You're now ready to download and install Windows 11. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Download the Windows 11 ISO file by clicking [here](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows11?ranMID=24542&ranEAID=kXQk6*ivFEQ&ranSiteID=kXQk6.ivFEQ-GFilLzHmnvGn73OVoeOvYw&epi=kXQk6.ivFEQ-GFilLzHmnvGn73OVoeOvYw&irgwc=1&OCID=AID2200057_aff_7593_1243925&tduid=(ir__1fb0rgwc9gkf6xt2kdljxyphpu2xtlc2utbe0cqw00)(7593)(1243925)(kXQk6.ivFEQ-GFilLzHmnvGn73OVoeOvYw)()&irclickid=_1fb0rgwc9gkf6xt2kdljxyphpu2xtlc2utbe0cqw00).

Sign in to your Microsoft account. You'll need to select Windows 11 from the menu.

Step 2: Download the 64-bit ISO and save it to your disk.

Next, it will ask you to choose the product language. Select one and click Confirm. This might take some time, and the Windows 11 ISO file will download to your computer.

Step 3: Now, burn the ISO file to a USB drive or DVD to install Windows 11.

Insert your USB drive or CD/DVD into your computer. Right-click the Windows 11 ISO file and select “Burn disc image.” Select the location of your USB drive or CD/DVD, then click the “Burn” button.

After a short while, the Windows 11 file will be burned to your USB drive or DVD.

Step 4: Restart your PC and boot from the USB drive or disc that contains Windows 11.

Step 5: You should now see the Windows 11 Setup screen. Choose your language, and click the Next button.

Step 6: Enter your Windows 11 product key and click Next.

Step 7: Accept the licenses and agreements.

Step 8: Choose the "Customize installation" option.

Select **Custom installation**

Step 9: Select the drive you converted from GPT to MBR for installation, then click Next.

Select the drive to install on

That's it. Once that's done, you'll go through the usual Windows setup process. When it's over, Windows 11 will be installed on your drive that was previously MBR.

Tips for Optimizing Disk Performance in Windows 11

Windows 11 is Microsoft's latest version of the Windows operating system, featuring significant improvements in both user interface and performance. Therefore, optimizing your Windows 11 disk performance is essential. Here are some important tips to achieve this: 1. **Enable Storage Sense**: This feature automatically cleans up temporary files and unused apps to free up disk space. 2. **Update Drivers**: Ensure all hardware drivers are up to date for optimal performance. 3. **Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs**: In Task Manager, disable non-essential apps that run at startup and consume system resources. 4. **Regular Disk Defragmentation**: While modern SSDs don't require frequent defragmentation, if you're using an HDD, doing so periodically can enhance read and write speeds. 5. **Adjust Visual Effects**: In System settings, select "Adjust for best performance" to reduce visual animations, thus boosting system speed. 6. **Keep the OS Updated**: Stay current with Windows 11 updates to get the latest performance enhancements and security patches. 7. **Use a Solid State Drive (SSD)**: If possible, replace a traditional HDD with an SSD, as they offer faster read and write speeds. 8. **Allocate Adequate Virtual Memory**: Ensure your system has enough virtual memory to handle large tasks. 9. **Disable Sync Settings**: If you don't use Microsoft account sync, you can turn off this feature in Account settings to save bandwidth and disk space. 10. **Use the Defrag Tool**: For SSDs, the built-in Defrag and Optimize Drives tool can help optimize the file system. Implementing these tips will enhance your Windows 11 disk performance and overall system efficiency.

Free up C drive space: Make sure your system C drive has at least 120 GB or more of free space. Run Disk Cleanup: Regularly use the Windows Disk Cleanup tool to remove extra and unnecessary files from the C drive. Move large files: Ensure that all large files are stored on drives other than the one where Windows 11 is installed. Antivirus software: It's advisable to run a good antivirus software on your computer occasionally.

Conclusions

Microsoft is requiring that Windows 11 run only on hardware and software that meet specific requirements, including having sufficient free storage, a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) enabled, Secure Boot turned on, and a GPT disk drive.

Therefore, if you're running an MBR disk drive, you need to convert it to GPT first to install Windows 11. The task is made simpler with the Partition Master software, which can automatically convert MBR to GPT with just a few clicks.

Once you meet all the requirements, download the Windows 11 ISO file, and then follow the steps in this article to install Windows 11.