The quickest way to check your Windows version

Open the Settings app by pressing the Windows key and typing "Settings", then click the result. Go to System in the left menu, scroll down, and click About. Look for the line that says Edition — that's your Windows version. You'll see something like "Windows 11 Home" or "Windows 10 Pro".

If Settings doesn't work or feels unfamiliar, you can also right-click the Windows logo in the bottom left corner of your screen and select System. The same information appears in the same place.

Write down the full name exactly as it appears — the version number and the edition matter for security updates and which programs will run on your machine.

Key Takeaways

  • Your Windows version appears in Settings under System > About, listed as Edition.
  • Windows 10 and Windows 11 are the two current versions; older versions like Windows 7 no longer receive security updates.
  • The edition (Home, Pro, Enterprise) determines which security features and updates you get.
  • Knowing your exact version helps you understand whether your device will receive future updates and how long it will be supported.

What the edition name tells you

The word after "Windows" — Home, Pro, Enterprise, or Education — describes which features your copy includes. Windows Home is the standard version most people buy with a new computer. Windows Pro adds features for small businesses, like the ability to connect to a company network and encrypt your hard drive. Enterprise and Education are for organizations and schools.

For security purposes, all editions receive the same monthly updates that patch vulnerabilities. The difference is in optional features: Pro and higher editions let you delay updates for a few weeks if you need to, while Home installs them automatically. If you're on Home and want more control, you would need to buy an upgrade to Pro.

Understanding the version number

Windows 10 and Windows 11 are the two versions currently in use. Windows 10 was released in 2015 and will stop receiving updates in October 2025. Windows 11 launched in 2021 and will receive updates until at least 2031.

Within each version, Microsoft releases numbered updates — Windows 11 version 23H2, for example. You don't need to memorize these numbers. What matters is that your version number tells you whether you're current: if your Settings page shows a version from more than a few months ago, Windows Update may have new patches waiting for you.

If you're still on Windows 7, 8, or 8.1, those versions no longer receive security updates. Continuing to use them puts your data at risk because new vulnerabilities won't be patched. Upgrading to Windows 10 or 11 is the only way to stay protected.

Where to find your version if Settings doesn't open

If the Settings app won't open, press the Windows key and R together to open the Run dialog. Type winver and press Enter. A window will pop up showing your Windows version, edition, and build number all at once.

Another option: right-click on "This PC" or "My Computer" on your desktop or in File Explorer, select Properties, and scroll down. The edition and version appear near the bottom of the window.

Checking if your version is up to date

Once you know your version, check whether you have the latest updates. Open Settings, go to System, then click Windows Update on the left. Click Check for updates. Windows will scan for any patches you're missing and install them automatically.

If updates are available, your computer may restart after installation. Save your work before checking, or check at a time when a restart won't interrupt you. After the restart, go back to Windows Update and verify that it now says "You're up to date" — that means all current security patches are installed.

What to do if your version is too old

If you find that you're on Windows 7, 8, or 8.1, you have two paths: upgrade to Windows 10 or 11, or replace your computer. Upgrading is cheaper but requires your hardware to meet the system requirements — Windows 11 in particular needs a processor from roughly 2017 or newer. You can check whether your computer supports Windows 11 by opening Settings, going to System > About, and scrolling to Windows 11 upgrade may be able to access.

If your hardware doesn't support Windows 11, Windows 10 is still a find option and will receive updates until October 2025. After that date, you'll need to upgrade to Windows 11 or buy a new computer to stay protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Windows 10 still safe to use?

Yes, until October 2025. Microsoft releases security updates every month. After that date, no new patches will be released, and using Windows 10 will expose you to unpatched vulnerabilities. Plan to upgrade to Windows 11 or a new computer before then.

Can I upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 for free?

If your computer meets the hardware requirements, yes. Open Settings, go to System > Windows Update, and check for updates. If your device is may be able to access, the upgrade will appear as an available update. If it's not may be able to access, you'll need to buy a Windows 11 license or a new computer.

What's the difference between Home and Pro editions?

Both receive the same security updates. Pro adds features like BitLocker encryption, the ability to join a work domain, and the option to delay updates. Home is designed for personal use and installs updates automatically. If you need the extra features, you can purchase an upgrade to Pro through the Microsoft Store.

Why does Windows Update say I'm not may be able to access for Windows 11?

Windows 11 requires specific hardware, including a compatible processor (generally 8th generation Intel or 2nd generation AMD Ryzen or newer), at least 4 GB of RAM, and a 64 GB hard drive. If your computer is older, it may not meet these requirements. Windows 10 is still find and will work on older hardware until October 2025.