How to install Windows 11 on i5-6500 Intel CPU?

Look, officially, Microsoft says "no way" to install Windows 11 on i5 6500 CPU. They want you to buy new hardware, naturally. But the i5-6500 is still a pretty decent chip for everyday tasks. It's not like you're trying to run it on a potato! So, bypassing the check is often worth a shot if you understand the risks.

I've tried both the Registry Editor method and using a modified ISO. Honestly, the registry edit is usually the easier and safer bet. The ISO route feels a bit sketchier to me, because you're trusting whoever made that ISO not to have slipped in something nasty.

Important Notes:

BIOS Settings: Make sure virtualization is enabled in your BIOS (usually called "Intel Virtualization Technology" or something similar). Sometimes, this can affect compatibility.
Drivers: After install, be prepared to hunt down drivers. Windows Update might not find everything. Check the HP website for drivers for your specific laptop model. Even if they're for older versions of Windows, they might work.
Updates Might Be Tricky: Sometimes, Windows Update will complain after you've bypassed the checks. There are usually workarounds (Google is your friend!), but it can be a bit of a hassle.
Consider Windows 10: Seriously, Windows 10 is still supported for a while. If you have major problems with Windows 11, don't be afraid to go back to Windows 10. It's a perfectly good OS!