System requirements: supported Windows versions and architectures

Before you install, here's exactly what BRUTAL Optimizer runs on. We keep this list honest and narrow rather than claiming broad support we can't stand behind.

Supported

Windows 10 and Windows 11, 64-bit (x64) only.
Administrator rights every launch. BRUTAL changes registry, service and power settings, so it asks for elevation each time it starts. There is no way around this — see why admin is required.
N editions and LTSC generally work fine.

The footprint is modest — disk and RAM use are light. Guardian (Pro) actually frees roughly 2–4 GB while you game rather than consuming it, and its idle CPU use is negligible. See does Guardian slow my PC.

Not supported

If your system is on this list, BRUTAL will not run (or won't install correctly):

Windows 7 and Windows 8 / 8.1
32-bit (x86) Windows
ARM / ARM64 devices
Windows Server editions
Windows 10/11 in S-mode — S-mode blocks sideloaded apps, so the installer can't run. You would need to switch out of S-mode first (a one-way change Microsoft documents), which is your decision to make.

Not sure which build you have? Press Win + R, type winver, and press Enter. The dialog shows your Windows edition and version. To confirm 64-bit, open Settings → System → About and check System type — it should say "64-bit operating system."

A note on the installer

The installer is digitally signed by Arhas India (OPC) Private Limited. A brand-new release can still get a Windows SmartScreen prompt while its reputation builds — choose More info, check that the publisher reads Arhas India (OPC) Private Limited, then Run anyway. Full walkthrough in install and first run, and SmartScreen/antivirus specifics in update and install problems.

FAQ

Will it run on Windows 11 ARM (Snapdragon)?

No. BRUTAL is x64 only and there's no ARM/ARM64 build today.

I'm on Windows 10 in S-mode — can I use it?

Not while you're in S-mode, because S-mode blocks installing apps from outside the Microsoft Store. You'd need to switch out of S-mode first; that's a permanent choice and entirely up to you.

Does it work on a laptop or handheld?

Yes, as long as it's 64-bit Windows 10/11. A few power-hungry modules are best used only while plugged in — see laptops and handhelds.

Still unsure whether your setup is supported? Email [email protected] with your Windows version (from winver) and we'll tell you straight.