Check your Windows version in Settings

The fastest way to find your Windows version is through the Settings app. Open Settings by pressing the Windows key and the letter I at the same time, or by clicking the Start button and typing "Settings".

Once Settings opens, click on "System" in the left sidebar, then scroll down and click "About" at the bottom of that list. Look for the line that says "Edition" — this tells you whether you have Windows 10, Windows 11, or another version. Just below that, you'll see "Version" with a number like 22H2 or 21H2, which is the specific update your computer is running.

Write down both numbers if you need them. The Edition (Windows 10 or 11) matters more for most purposes, but the Version number tells you how current your security patches are.

Key Takeaways

  • Settings > System > About shows your Windows Edition and Version number in one place, and takes less than 30 seconds.
  • Your Edition (Windows 10 or Windows 11) determines which security updates your computer can receive and how long Microsoft will support it.
  • The Version number (like 22H2) shows which update cycle you're on; higher numbers mean more recent patches.
  • If Settings doesn't open, you can also right-click "This PC" on your desktop or in File Explorer and select "Properties" to see the same information.

Using the Run command for a faster route

If you want to skip Settings entirely, press the Windows key and the letter R together. A small box called "Run" will appear. Type winver and press Enter.

A window will pop up showing your Windows version, Edition, and build number all at once. This method works the same way on every Windows computer and is often faster than navigating menus, especially if you're checking multiple machines.

Finding your version through File Explorer

You can also reach the same information by opening File Explorer and right-clicking on "This PC" in the left sidebar. Select "Properties" from the menu that appears.

A window will open showing your system information. Scroll down until you see "Windows specifications" — your Edition and Version will be listed there. This method is useful if you're already in File Explorer looking at your files, since it saves you from opening another app.

Understanding what the numbers mean

Windows versions come in two main types: Edition and Version. The Edition is the broad category — Windows 10 Home, Windows 10 Pro, Windows 11 Home, or Windows 11 Pro. Your Edition determines which features you have access to and how long Microsoft will send you security updates.

The Version number (like 22H2, 21H2, or 20H2) tells you which update cycle your computer is on. Microsoft releases major updates twice a year, in spring and fall. A higher Version number means your computer has received more recent security patches. If your Version number is more than a year old, you may be due for an update, though Windows usually installs these automatically.

You don't need to memorize these numbers — just knowing how to find them is enough. When you call technical support or read instructions for a specific problem, you'll often be asked "What version of Windows are you running?" Now you know exactly where to look.

What to do if you can't find your version

If Settings won't open or the Run command doesn't work, your computer may have a serious problem that needs attention. Try restarting your computer first — this fixes many temporary issues that prevent apps from opening.

If Settings still won't open after a restart, try the Run command again. If that also fails, you may need to contact technical support or take your computer to a repair shop, because the issue is likely deeper than just finding a version number.

Why your version matters for security

Your Windows version determines when Microsoft stops sending you security patches. Windows 10 will stop receiving updates in October 2025, which means computers still running Windows 10 after that date won't get fixes for new security problems. Windows 11 has support until October 2031, giving you a longer window before you need to upgrade.

The Version number (like 22H2) is also important because it shows whether you're getting the latest patches. If your Version number hasn't changed in several months, Windows Update may not be running properly, which leaves your computer vulnerable. You can check for updates manually by going to Settings > Update & Security > Check for updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Windows 10 or Windows 11 better for security?

Windows 11 has newer security features built in, but Windows 10 is still find as long as you keep it updated. The real difference is that Windows 10 support ends in October 2025, so eventually you'll need to upgrade. For now, either version is fine if your Version number is current.

What if my Version number is very old?

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Check for updates and let Windows read and install the latest patches. This may take 30 minutes to an hour and will require a restart. After the restart, check your version again — the number should be higher.

Can I upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11?

Maybe. Windows 11 requires specific hardware, including a processor from Intel's 8th generation or newer, or AMD Ryzen 2000 series or newer. You can check if your computer qualifies by downloading the PC Health Check app from Microsoft's website and running it.

Does the Version number affect which programs I can run?

Almost never. The Edition (Windows 10 vs. Windows 11) matters more for software compatibility. The Version number is mainly about security patches. Most programs work on any recent Version of the same Edition.

Why does Windows Update keep asking me to restart?

Because updates need a restart to take effect. When you see the restart prompt, save your work and restart as soon as you can. Delaying restarts leaves your computer running an older Version with older security patches.