Find your Windows version in three clicks

The fastest way to see your Windows version is to right-click the Start button (the Windows logo in the bottom left corner), then click System. A window opens showing your version number under "Edition" — you'll see something like "Windows 11" or "Windows 10". That's all you need.

If that doesn't work, press the Windows key and the letter R at the same time, type winver, and press Enter. A small window appears with your version displayed at the top. Both methods take under a minute and work on any Windows computer.

Knowing your version matters because some programs only run on newer Windows versions, and security updates stop arriving for older ones. If you're troubleshooting a problem or installing software, the first question is often "what Windows version are you running?" — now you can answer it when ready.

Key Takeaways

  • Right-click the Start button and select System to see your Windows version in the Edition field.
  • Press Windows key + R, type winver, and press Enter for an alternative method that works on all Windows computers.
  • Your version number appears as Windows 10, Windows 11, or similar — write it down if you need it for support or software installation.
  • Older Windows versions stop receiving security updates, so knowing your version helps you understand whether your computer needs an upgrade.
  • The build number (a longer number shown below the version) tells you which specific update you have installed.

What the version number actually tells you

Windows comes in versions — Windows 10 and Windows 11 are the current ones you'll see on most computers. Each version gets updates throughout its life, and the build number (a long number like 22621.1234) shows which specific update you have. You don't usually need to memorize the build number, but it matters when you're talking to support or checking whether a particular fix has been installed.

Microsoft stops sending security updates to Windows versions after a certain date. Windows 10 will stop receiving updates in October 2025, which means if you're still running it after that date, your computer won't get patches for new security problems. Knowing your version tells you whether you're on a version that still receives updates or whether an upgrade is coming soon.

Using the Settings app instead

If you prefer the Settings app, press the Windows key and type Settings, then open it. Click System on the left side, then scroll down and click About. Look for the line that says "Edition" — that's your Windows version. This method is slightly longer than right-clicking Start, but some people find it easier to remember.

The About page also shows your device name, processor, installed RAM, and system type (64-bit or 32-bit). If you ever need to share your computer's specifications with someone helping you troubleshoot, this is the page to screenshot.

Finding your version on older Windows computers

If you're running an older version of Windows (like Windows 7 or Windows 8), the steps are slightly different. Press the Windows key and R, type winver, and press Enter — this method works on every Windows version. The window that opens shows your version at the top.

Alternatively, right-click This PC or My Computer on your desktop, click Properties, and look for the Windows version listed near the top of the window. Both methods work, though the winver command is usually faster.

What to do once you know your version

Once you have your version number, you can check whether your computer is still receiving updates. Visit Microsoft's support page and search for your version — it will tell you the end date for updates. If your version is approaching that date, you may want to plan an upgrade to Windows 11 or stay on Windows 10 until you're ready.

If you're installing software and it asks what version you need, you now have the answer. If you're calling support or posting in a forum for help, include your version number in your first message — it saves the person helping you from asking. Write down both the edition (Windows 10 or Windows 11) and the build number if you have it.

Checking for updates after you know your version

Knowing your version is the first step; checking for updates is the next one. Press the Windows key, type Update, and open Windows Update settings. Click Check for updates and Windows will read any available patches. This is separate from knowing your version — you can be on Windows 11 but missing recent security updates, so checking both matters.

Updates usually install automatically, but checking manually ensures you're not waiting for the next scheduled check. After updates install, Windows often asks you to restart your computer. Do it as soon as you can — the restart is when the updates actually take effect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a difference between Windows 10 and Windows 11?

Yes. Windows 11 is newer and has a different look, but both versions work similarly. Windows 10 will stop receiving updates in October 2025, so if you're running it, you'll eventually need to upgrade. Windows 11 is the current version Microsoft supports.

What does the build number mean?

The build number is a specific update within your version. Two computers both running Windows 11 might have different build numbers if one has more recent updates installed. You usually don't need to know your build number unless support asks for it.

Can I upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11?

Many computers can, but not all. Windows 11 requires specific hardware features that older computers don't have. Check Microsoft's website for system requirements, or contact the person who sold you your computer to ask whether an upgrade is possible.

Why does my version number look different from what I expected?

Windows sometimes shows version numbers in different formats depending on where you look. The Edition field (Windows 10, Windows 11) is what matters most. If you see a long number instead, that's the build number — it's correct, just more detailed than you need.