Intel Celeron N3050 and N3060 processors are not compatible with Windows 11. For people running Windows 10 on Celeron N3050 and N3060 processors, we look at the options below.
Why are N3050 and N3060 Celeron processors incompatible with Windows 11?
There is no definite answer about the potential reason of incompatibility between N3050, N3060 and Windows 11 operating system. Microsoft published a list of Windows 11 compatible processors and N3050 and N3060 processor fail to make it to the list.
Assuming you are running Windows 10 on N3050 or N3060 systems, it is pertinent to note that Windows 10 operating system becomes end of life on 14 October 2025. We discuss the available options for such systems.
What does it mean when Windows 10 becomes end of life?
End of life operating systems are not supported. The normal security updates are not released for such systems. However, buyers do have an option to enroll in a paid subscription to the Extended Security Updates.
Windows 10 will not get security updates from November 2025, unless you enroll in the ESU program for Windows 10.
Where does this leave such systems?
There are a few potential options.
Get a new computer
For a hassle free ownership experience, it is suggested to get a new computer with preloaded Windows 11 operating system. It costs more money in the short term. But, it affords a more secure period of ownership.
Get Extended Security Updates
You could extend the security coverage of a Windows 10 computer by enrolling in the Extended Security Update program. This is a paid subscription that offers Extended Secuiryt Updates for a period between 1 to 3 years.
To get the ESU program, Windows 10 needs to be on Windows 10 22H2 version. And, do make a note that the Extended Security Updates are costlier than the regular licenses.
Do Nothing
If you are unable to get a new system or a paid subscription to Windows 10 ESU program, you do have an option to continue using Windows 10 without security updates. It is a less than ideal situation because your Windows 10 computer will be prone to being hacked. It could be targeted by malicious actors for installing malware or malicious software.
However, it is important to reiterate that, Windows 10 computers will continue to work post October 14, 2025.
Should I do a forceful installation of Windows 11?
Technically speaking, you can install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware. But, it is not recommended because of the following reasons:
- Access to Windows 11 security updates is not guaranteed.
- There is a high possibility of your computer malfunctioning due to inherent software and hardware incompatibilities.
At the end of the day, installing Windows 11 on unsupported hardware is just not worth your time.
Our recommendation
Our suggestion is to get a new computer with Windows 11 preloaded. It may not be cost-friendly to get Extended Security Updates. And, it is not advisable to continue to use a computer for business purposes without access to regular security updates.