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April 17th, 2025 06:49
OptiPlex 7050 Tower CPU Upgrade for Windows 11
OptiPlex 7050 Tower
I would like to upgrade my Dell Optiplex 7050 in order to install Windows 11. My computer has Intel Core i7-7700 @3.60GHz. According to the Microsoft website, they do not support that processor. However, they do support Intel Core i7-7800X. Can I change to this processor (ie chipset, RAM, BIOS, etc supports)? If so, is there a source where I can buy this processor? Thanks in advance for any help or advice. I'm not in a position to buy a new computer as of now.
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Chino de Oro
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April 17th, 2025 07:26
You do not need to buy a new computer. You can install Windows 11 to your current system and it will run without problem.
For installer, download Windows 11 24H2 ISO, download RUFUS. Run RUFUS to create a USB installer and select only option to remove requirements for an online account.
For system settings, select UEFI boot mode, Secure Boot enable, TPM enable.
Disconnect the ethernet cable and you are ready to install Windows 11. Select to create Username and Password instead of creating a Microsoft account. Only when you are happy with the new Windows, you can add your Microsoft account later.
WmCale
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April 17th, 2025 07:32
@Chino de Oro Thanks for the fast reply. Does this mean a clean OS install? I finally got everything working and I would rather not reinstall everything. If my only option is a clean install, I would rather keep Windows 10 until I have no option but to upgrade.
Chino de Oro
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April 17th, 2025 07:42
Win 11 24H2 has given many users problem doing upgrade and creating of windows.old folder. Hence a clean install is better approach that can get it done right at the first time.
Of course, it's up to user preference. Many methods will allow in-place upgrade. Bottom line is, no need to buy a new computer when an OptiPlex 7050 is a viable system.
WmCale
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April 17th, 2025 08:16
@Chino de Oro Is Windows 11 24H2 ISO a pro version or home?
Chino de Oro
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April 17th, 2025 08:35
It should be an all-in-one. During installation, the installer will detect the embedded license on motherboard and it will install proper edition of Windows.
You can review installation tutorial at this site to get some idea prior to performing installation on your system. Restructure or upgrade hardware then making adjustments to BIOS firmware with Win 11 support settings. It's a good idea to give your system a fresh new coin cell battery as a necessary maintenance task.
WmCale
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April 17th, 2025 09:19
There is no embedded license on the motherboard. I have a utilities to display the "embedded" license and it returns a blank field. My company must have erased the key when they sold the PC.
Chino de Oro
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April 17th, 2025 09:35
For the thread topic of upgrading the processor, it's a no go from the beginning due to incompatible CPU socket, LGA1151 vs. LGA2066.
Fortunately, I could tell you that there is possibility for your system hardware to run Win 11. Providing general idea of how to make it happened and it's up to you to carry it forward.
I thought your computer is currently active for Windows 10 now? If it's active with Win 10 digital license, your system hardware should be recognized for Win 11 license and be active with the same edition (Pro/Home). Your company may have remove KMS Windows license but they can't remove a firmware injected Windows license.