The ability to correctly identify the version of your Windows operating system is crucial in a number of circumstances, particularly when considering system upgrades or performing troubleshooting procedures. This guide provides systematic instructions on how to ascertain the version of your Windows operating system.
Method 1: Utilizing the Settings Application
- Open the Settings application. This can be achieved by selecting the Start Menu (denoted by the Windows logo situated at the lower-left corner of your screen), followed by the gear icon. Alternatively, execute the keyboard combination
Windows + I.
- Select the System category.
- In the left-hand panel, navigate to the About section.
- Under the “Windows Specifications” section, available on the right side of the screen, you will find the Windows edition, version, and build, indicating the specifics of your current Windows version.
Method 2: Accessing the System Information Tool
- Initiate the Run dialogue box by pressing the
Windows + Rkeys simultaneously.
msinfo32into the text box, followed by the Enter key. This command launches the System Information tool.
- The “OS Name” and “Version” in the right-hand panel reveal your Windows edition and version.
Method 3: Using the Command Prompt
- Open the Run dialogue box with the
Windows + Rkeys.
cmdinto the text box and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
verand press Enter within the Command Prompt. The system will subsequently present the version number.
Note that the version number may not directly correspond to identifiers like “Windows 10” or “Windows 11” – it may appear as a number sequence like “10.0.19041”. Microsoft’s official documentation or a suitable internet search can be used to correlate this number with the conventional version name.
Method 4: Accessing the Winver Dialog
- Press the
Windows + Rkeys on your keyboard to initiate the Run dialogue box.
winverinto the text box and press Enter.
- A dialog will appear, detailing the version of your Windows operating system alongside further information about the system.
These methods provide an efficient way to determine your Windows version, essential for ensuring that your system is current with relevant security updates and features. This knowledge is a valuable tool for maintaining your system’s functionality and security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Why do I need to know my Windows version?
A1: Knowing your Windows version is crucial for troubleshooting problems, installing new software, or confirming that your system is up-to-date with the latest security patches and updates.
Q2: The version shown in the Command Prompt is a series of numbers. What does this mean?
A2: Windows versions are often displayed as numerical strings, such as “10.0.19041”. This number can be correlated to the major, minor and patch/build version. However these conventions change, so you may need to double check for your specific version.
Q3: Can I use these methods on any Windows device?
A3: Yes, these methods should be applicable for all systems running Windows. However, the steps might slightly vary depending on the specific Windows version (Windows 7, 8, 10, or 11).
Q4: What is the difference between ‘Windows edition’ and ‘Windows version’?
A4: The ‘Windows edition’ refers to the name of the specific Windows product, such as Windows 10 Home, Windows 10 Pro, or Windows 11. The ‘Windows version’, on the other hand, refers to the specific updates or builds installed on your system, which is usually represented by a number.