The quickest way to check your Windows version

Open the Settings app by pressing the Windows key and typing "Settings", then click the app when it appears. Go to System in the left menu, scroll down, and click About. Look for the line that says "Edition" — this tells you whether you have Windows 11, Windows 10, or an older version. You will also see your "OS Build" number, which is the specific update level your computer is running.

If you prefer not to use Settings, you can also right-click the Start button, select System, and scroll down to find the same information. Both methods take about 30 seconds.

Key Takeaways

  • Your Windows version appears in Settings under System > About, in the line labeled "Edition".
  • The OS Build number shows which security and feature updates you have installed, separate from your main version.
  • Knowing your version matters because older versions stop receiving security updates, leaving your computer more vulnerable to malware.
  • Windows 10 support ends in October 2025, so computers still running it will need to upgrade to stay protected.

Why your Windows version matters for security

Microsoft releases security updates roughly once a month for Windows versions that are still supported. If you are running an old version that has reached "end of support", you stop receiving these patches. That means new vulnerabilities discovered in Windows itself will not be fixed on your machine, and malware authors know this.

Windows 10 is currently supported, but that support ends in October 2025. Windows 11 is the current version and will receive updates for many years. If your computer shows Windows 7, Windows 8, or Windows 8.1, it is no longer receiving any security updates at all, and upgrading is the only way to protect it.

What the OS Build number tells you

The OS Build is a four or five-digit number that changes with each monthly update. For example, a Windows 11 computer might show "OS Build 23630" while another shows "23615". Both are Windows 11, but one has received more recent patches.

You do not need to memorize your build number, but it is useful when troubleshooting. If you contact Microsoft support or search for a specific problem online, mentioning your build number helps others understand exactly what version you are running. You can also use it to check whether you are up to date: go to Settings > System > Windows Update and click Check for updates to see if a newer build is available.

Checking Windows updates and security status

Once you know your version, the next step is to make sure you have the latest patches. Go to Settings > System > Windows Update and look at the top of the page. If it says "You are up to date", your computer has the most recent security fixes. If it shows a blue button that says Check for updates or read, click it to install the latest patches.

Windows usually installs updates automatically, but checking manually ensures you are not running an older build for weeks without knowing it. Updates typically take 10 to 30 minutes and may require a restart, which is why many people delay them — but the security benefit of staying current outweighs the inconvenience.

What to do if your version is no longer supported

If your computer shows Windows 7, Windows 8, or Windows 8.1, it is running a version that Microsoft no longer updates. This is a real security risk: your computer will be vulnerable to any new malware or Windows vulnerabilities discovered from now on, with no patches coming to fix them.

Your options are to upgrade to Windows 10 or Windows 11. Windows 10 is still supported until October 2025 and can run on older hardware. Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements (mainly a compatible processor) but is the long-term choice. You can check whether your computer can run Windows 11 by going to Settings > System > About and looking for "System type" — if it says "64-bit", you have a better chance of compatibility. If you are unsure, a local computer repair shop can tell you in minutes whether your hardware supports Windows 11.

Finding your version on older computers

If your computer is very old and you cannot access Settings, you can find your Windows version another way. Right-click on "This PC" or "My Computer" on your desktop, select Properties, and look for "System" information. The version will be listed there, though the layout looks different from newer Windows versions.

You can also press the Windows key and R together to open the Run dialog, type "winver" and press Enter. A small window will pop up showing your Windows version, build number, and service pack (if you are on an older version). This method works on almost any Windows computer, even very old ones.

Understanding the difference between editions

Windows comes in different editions: Home, Pro, Enterprise, and Education. Most home users have Windows 10 Home or Windows 11 Home. The edition does not affect your security updates — all editions receive the same monthly patches. The difference is in features: Pro includes tools for business networking and encryption, while Home is simpler and less expensive.

You do not need to upgrade your edition for security reasons. If you see "Home" in your About page, that is fine. The important thing is that your version (10 or 11) is still supported and that you are installing updates regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I tell what Windows version I have without opening Settings?

Yes. Press Windows key + R, type "winver" and press Enter. A window will pop up showing your version and build number. This works on any Windows computer and is faster than navigating Settings if you already know the shortcut.

What does "OS Build" mean, and do I need to update if mine is old?

OS Build is the specific update number within your Windows version. If Windows Update shows a newer build available, installing it gives you the latest security patches. You should check for updates at least monthly, or let Windows install them automatically.

Is Windows 10 still safe to use?

Windows 10 is safe right now because it still receives security updates. However, support ends in October 2025, after which no more patches will be released. If you are using Windows 10, plan to upgrade to Windows 11 before that date to stay protected.

My computer says it cannot run Windows 11. What should I do?

If your hardware does not support Windows 11, you can stay on Windows 10 until October 2025. After that, you will need either a new computer or a hardware upgrade. A local repair shop can tell you whether upgrading your processor or other parts is possible and affordable for your specific machine.

Does knowing my Windows version help me fix computer problems?

Yes. When you search for solutions online or contact support, mentioning your version and build number helps others understand your exact setup. It also tells you whether a problem is related to an outdated system that needs updating, or something else entirely.