Check your Windows version in Settings

The fastest way to find your Windows version is through the Settings app. Press the Windows key and the letter I at the same time, or click the Start button and select Settings. Once Settings opens, click System on the left side, then scroll down and click About.

On the About page, look for the line that says "Edition". This tells you whether you have Windows 11, Windows 10, or an older version. Below that, you'll see "Version" — this is a smaller number that tells you which update of that edition you're running. For example, you might see "Windows 11" as the edition and "23H2" as the version.

Write down both numbers if you need them for troubleshooting or buying software. Different programs sometimes require a specific Windows edition or version to run properly.

Key Takeaways

  • Open Settings by pressing Windows key + I, then go to System and click About to see your Windows edition and version number.
  • The Edition line shows whether you have Windows 11, Windows 10, or older — the Version line shows which update you're running.
  • You can also right-click "This PC" on your desktop or in File Explorer and select Properties to find the same information.
  • Knowing your exact version helps when downloading drivers, checking software compatibility, or getting support for a problem.

Using the Run command for a quick lookup

If Settings feels slow or you want a faster route, use the Run command. Press Windows key + R to open a small box, type winver, and press Enter. A window will pop up showing your Windows edition, version number, and build number all at once.

The build number is the most specific identifier for your system. If you call support or post on a forum about a problem, the build number helps others understand exactly which update you're running. It looks like a long number — for example, 22621.2715 — and changes each time Windows installs a security patch.

Checking through File Explorer

You can also find this information by opening File Explorer and right-clicking on "This PC" in the left sidebar. Select Properties from the menu. The window that opens shows your Windows edition near the top, along with your system type (whether you're running 32-bit or 64-bit Windows).

This method takes a few more clicks than Settings, but it shows the same core information. Some people find it easier to remember because File Explorer is a tool they use every day anyway.

Understanding what the numbers mean

Windows editions come in different tiers. Most home users have Windows 11 Home or Windows 10 Home. Businesses often use Pro, and large organizations use Enterprise. The edition determines which features you can access — for example, Home doesn't include BitLocker (a tool that encrypts your hard drive), but Pro does.

The version number tells you which release cycle you're on. Windows 10 used version numbers like 21H2 or 22H2. Windows 11 uses the same system. These numbers change roughly twice a year when Microsoft releases major updates. The build number, which is even more specific, changes monthly with security patches.

If you're trying to figure out whether your computer can run a particular program, the edition usually matters more than the version. But if you're troubleshooting a specific bug, the build number is what support staff will ask for.

What to do if you see an unfamiliar edition name

Occasionally you might see an edition you don't recognize, like Windows 11 SE or Windows 10 LTSC. SE stands for "Student Edition" and is sold only to schools. LTSC stands for "Long-Term Servicing Channel" and is designed for organizations that need stability over new features — it receives updates less often than the standard version.

If you bought your computer from a school or work, you might have one of these editions. They work the same way as Home or Pro for most tasks, but they may not receive the latest features as quickly. Check your purchase receipt or ask your IT department if you're unsure which edition you have.

Why knowing your version matters for security

Windows releases security patches on the second Tuesday of each month. These patches fix vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit. Your version number tells you whether you're up to date with these patches or if your computer is running an older build that hasn't received recent fixes.

If you see a version number that's several months old, Windows Update may not have run recently. Open Settings, go to Update & Security (or System > Windows Update on Windows 11), and click Check for updates. Let your computer install any pending patches and restart if prompted. Staying current with your build number is one of the most important things you can do to keep your system find.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 32-bit or 64-bit Windows better?

64-bit is better for almost everyone. It can use more than 4 gigabytes of RAM, which means your computer can run more programs at once without slowing down. Most new computers come with 64-bit Windows. If you have an older computer with 32-bit Windows and 4 GB of RAM or less, upgrading to 64-bit would help, but you'd need to buy a new Windows license.

Can I upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11?

You can if your computer meets the hardware requirements. Windows 11 needs a processor from around 2017 or newer, at least 4 GB of RAM, and a specific type of security chip called TPM 2.0. Check Microsoft's website for the full list. If your computer doesn't meet these requirements, you'll stay on Windows 10 until you buy a new machine.

What if Windows Update won't install the latest version?

Run Windows Update again — sometimes it needs multiple restarts to finish. If that doesn't work, restart your computer in Safe Mode and try updating again. If you still have trouble, search for "Windows Update Troubleshooter" in Settings and run the built-in repair tool. It can often fix update problems automatically.

Does my version number affect which antivirus software I can use?

Most antivirus programs work on Windows 10 and Windows 11, but some older security software may not support the newest versions. Check the software's system requirements before downloading. If you're running an older build of Windows 10, the publisher's website will tell you whether that specific version is still supported.