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Check each app and device by its exact version or model before you rely on it. First confirm that the laptop runs Windows on Arm and note its Windows release. Then verify that apps have a native Arm64 build or confirmed emulation support, and that peripherals have a driver built into Windows or an Arm64 driver from their manufacturer. For printers, also check Mopria support and test the Windows setup flow.
1. Confirm the laptop is Arm-based and note its Windows version
Open Settings > System > About and check the device specifications and system type. Microsoft’s Windows Arm-based PCs FAQ also describes checking System type to identify an ARM-based processor. Record the Windows version: Microsoft’s guidance on Prism emulation applies specifically to Windows 11 version 24H2.
2. Check apps by version and by the work you need them to do
Make a list of the apps you depend on, including work or school software, VPN and security tools, assistive technology, input method editors, cloud storage, and utilities that came with accessories. Give extra attention to software that installs a driver or system service, or changes how Windows works.
Look for a native Arm64 release first
Check the app publisher’s current support or download page for a Windows on Arm or Arm64 version, and confirm that it supports your Windows release. Microsoft says apps rebuilt for Windows Arm-based PCs have the best performance. Its FAQ says most Windows apps can run on Windows 11 Arm PCs; Windows 11 version 24H2 includes Prism emulation to improve performance for emulated apps.
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For x86 or x64 apps, verify the actual workflow
If the publisher offers no native Arm64 build, ask whether the exact app version is supported under emulation on your Windows release. General emulation support does not establish that every feature works. Plugins, protected workflows, drivers, and services can have separate requirements. Microsoft notes that apps that customize Windows can run into problems, and some third-party antivirus software may not install unless its maker has built or updated it for Arm.
Use compatibility lists as a starting point
Works on WoA is an evolving, third-party open-source list of apps and games, with compatibility data to which Microsoft contributes. Use it to discover reports, not as a guarantee: confirm important software with its publisher because support can change and the developer determines compatibility.
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3. Check every peripheral by exact model and required function
Search the hardware maker’s support page for the precise model and look for a Windows 11 Arm or Arm64 driver. Also check whether the driver is already included with Windows. Microsoft’s guidance is that a peripheral works when its required driver is built into Windows 11 or the hardware developer has released an Arm64 driver. See Microsoft’s guidance on software and peripherals for Surface Arm-based devices; for other laptop brands, follow the relevant manufacturer’s instructions.
Do not stop at whether the device connects. Check that the specific function you need works, including any firmware updater, control utility, status monitor, or accessory software. If the device relies on a vendor utility or driver, ask its maker whether that exact model and function are supported on Windows 11 Arm.
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4. Treat printers as a separate compatibility check
Microsoft says Windows 11 Arm PCs support most printers, including printers that support Mopria. That platform-level statement does not guarantee every printer feature or manufacturer utility. Check the printer maker’s guidance for the exact model, and distinguish basic printing from scanning, status monitoring, and other vendor-specific functions. Microsoft’s help with installing printers on ARM PCs notes that a manufacturer’s installer may not support ARM.
If the vendor installer fails, try adding the printer through Windows’ built-in printer setup flow, following Microsoft’s instructions. For broader context on Mopria and modern printing, see Microsoft’s Modern print platform documentation.
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5. Test before you depend on the setup
- Install available Windows updates, then install the app or connect the device using the publisher’s or manufacturer’s recommended method. Microsoft recommends Windows Update for current features in its Surface Arm guidance.
- Run the task you actually need: sign in to the work service, connect the VPN, use the relevant app features and plugins, or test printing and scanning rather than only checking that the printer appears.
- If a feature fails, check for an updated Arm64 app or driver, and ask the publisher or manufacturer about the exact version or model and Windows 11 Arm. Retest after installing updates, since software and driver support can change.
What “most apps” and “most printers” do—and don’t—tell you
Microsoft’s statements describe broad platform support, not a warranty for a particular app, device, or workflow. An app that runs under emulation can still depend on an incompatible kernel driver or system integration. A printer that Windows discovers may still lack scanning, status tools, or other manufacturer-specific features. The dependable check is the publisher’s or manufacturer’s confirmation for the exact product and Windows version, followed by a test of the functions you need.
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