If we set aside the controversy over the minimum requirements for desktop and laptop computers, we will discover that Windows 11 gets along quite well with ARM devices. That has led to a series of very interesting experiments by some developers, and the most striking thing is that Windows 11 works on the Raspberry Pi 4. There is still a lack of specific support for components like WiFi and Bluetooth, but if you want a preview of its performance and have a Pi 4 gathering dust, why not try it?
The Raspberry Pi revolutionized the DIY space. Its broad support and the extraordinary response from the market offering accessories and components allowed us to develop all kinds of projects. However, the Raspberry Pi never really became a replacement for a traditional PC, beyond creations like the Pi 400. On one hand, it simply doesn't have enough power, and on the other... most people want Windows on the desktop.
But Windows 11 is approaching on the horizon, and its ARM support is much more polished. Microsoft did not highlight the Raspberry Pi in its list of supported hardware, nor does it have certain required security modules. Obviously, that is not going to stop enthusiasts, and in recent days we have discovered a very interesting development: Windows 11 works on the Raspberry Pi 4.
Windows 11 on the Raspberry Pi 4
Obviously, the installation process isn't exactly comfortable, but with the right tools and a couple of hours of our time, it should be successful. In one of his most recent videos, ETA PRIME explains the step-by-step, and everything begins with the recommendation of some secondary elements. On one hand, the Raspberry Pi 4 (whether it has 2, 4, or 8 GB of RAM) will need the latest update for its EEPROM and a cooling system (especially if you plan to overclock), and on the other hand, using memory cards isn't very convenient for speed reasons. A basic SSD with a USB 3.0 adapter will give better results.
The second step is to download "Windows on Raspberry", which takes care of preparing the Windows 11 image for the Raspberry Pi 4. Windows on Raspberry is only compatible with Windows, so you'll need another computer. The Windows on Raspberry portal itself offers two links to download the Windows 11 image: one is UUP Dump, and the other is the UUP variant from Adguard, an old acquaintance at NeoTeo. The exact build to download is Windows 11 Insider Preview, ARM64. Adguard enables a version called "ISO Compiler in OneClick" that downloads the files and creates the ISO image locally.
The rest is a matter of using Windows on Raspberry to "flash" the Windows 11 Preview ISO image to the drive. ETA PRIME's tutorial includes an extra step for overclocking the Pi 4, but it's not obligatory, we'd say. Finally, a couple of additional adjustments to the Raspberry Pi 4 firmware will lead us to the standard Windows 11 installation experience. Once again, Bluetooth and WiFi don't work, so we must use Ethernet.
