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Home / Glossary / TPM
Glossary · Device

TPM

Trusted Platform Module

In plain language

A small security chip in a computer that stores keys and checks that the machine has not been tampered with.

The metaphor

Like a tiny vault soldered into the machine, holding the keys that unlock your files.

Going deeper

How it works

  • It holds encryption keys apart from the main disk.
  • It helps a laptop prove it has not been altered at startup.
  • Windows 11 requires one.
  • Most business laptops from recent years have one.
In practice
  • An IT provider checks that computers have one before upgrading to Windows 11.
  • A laptop with drive encryption uses it to unlock automatically.
  • A firm retires machines that lack it when support ends.

A question owners ask

How do I know if my computer has one?

Your IT provider can check, and Windows will tell you when you try to upgrade.

Related terms
BIOSBasic Input/Output SystemCCTVClosed-circuit TelevisionCSUChannel Service UnitEndpointESNElectronic Serial NumberFirmwareFPGAField Programmable Gate ArrayGPSGlobal Positioning System

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