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" — this tells you whether you have Windows 11, Windows 10, or an older version. Below that, "Version" shows the specific update number your computer is running.
If you need this information right now and Settings feels slow, there is a faster route: press Windows key + R, type winver, and press Enter. A small window pops up with your edition and version in the first few lines. This method works on every Windows version from Windows 7 onward.
Both methods take less than a minute. The Settings route is better if you want to see other system details at the same time, like how much storage you have left. The winver command is better if you just need the version number and nothing else.
Key Takeaways
- Your Windows edition (like Windows 11 Home or Windows 10 Pro) appears in Settings under System > About, in the line labeled "Edition".
- The version number, which shows how recent your updates are, sits directly below the edition in the same Settings window.
- Pressing Windows key + R, typing winver, and pressing Enter opens a small window with both pieces of information in seconds.
- Knowing your version matters because some programs require a minimum Windows version, and updates roll out differently depending on which edition you own.
Why your Windows version matters
Your computer's version determines what updates you receive and when. Windows 10 and Windows 11 get updates on different schedules, and older versions like Windows 7 no longer receive security patches at all. If you are running an unsupported version, your computer is more vulnerable to viruses and malware.
Some software also requires a specific Windows version to run. A program might say "Windows 10 or later required" — if you have Windows 7, that program will not install. Checking your version before downloading something new saves you the frustration of a failed installation.
Your edition (Home, Pro, or Enterprise) also matters. Windows 11 Pro includes features like BitLocker encryption and remote desktop that Home does not have. If you need those tools for work, knowing your edition tells you whether you need to upgrade.
Understanding Windows editions and versions
The edition is the product you bought: Windows 11 Home, Windows 11 Pro, Windows 10 Home, and so on. Most personal computers run Home edition. Pro edition is common on work computers and includes business-focused tools. Enterprise is used by large organizations. The edition does not change unless you buy an upgrade.
The version is the update number, like 22H2 or 21H2. Microsoft releases major updates twice a year, and each one gets a version number. Your computer downloads these automatically if you have Windows Update turned on. A newer version number means your computer has the latest security patches and bug fixes.
You might also see a build number in the About window — this is even more specific than the version. Build numbers help Microsoft track exactly which update you have, down to the day it was released. For most purposes, you only need to know the edition and version.
What to do if your version is outdated
If your version number is more than a few months old, your computer probably has updates waiting. Open Settings, go to System, then click Windows Update on the left. Click Check for updates. Windows will read and install any available patches. Your computer may need to restart — save your work first.
If you are running Windows 7, Windows 8, or Windows 8.1, those versions no longer receive updates from Microsoft. The safest choice is to upgrade to Windows 10 or Windows 11. This is not free, but it protects your computer from security risks. You can buy a license directly from Microsoft or through retailers like Best Buy or Amazon.
If you cannot upgrade right now, at least turn on Windows Defender (the built-in antivirus) and keep it running. Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection and make sure it shows "Managed by your organization" or "Managed by Windows Defender". Do not use an unsupported Windows version for banking or shopping online.
Checking your version on older Windows systems
If you have Windows 7 or Windows 8, the Settings app looks different, but the winver command still works. Press Windows key + R, type winver, and press Enter. The window that opens shows your edition and version in the same format as newer Windows versions.
On Windows 7, you can also right-click Computer or This PC on your desktop, click Properties, and look for "System" information. The edition appears near the top. This method is slower than winver but shows the same information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Windows 10 and Windows 11?
Windows 11 is newer and has a redesigned interface, better security features, and improved performance on newer computers. Windows 10 still receives updates and works fine for most people. If your computer is more than five years old, Windows 10 may run better than Windows 11.
Can I find my Windows version without opening Settings?
Yes. Press Windows key + R, type winver, and press Enter. This opens a small window with your edition and version. You can also right-click the Start button, click System, and scroll down to find the same information.
Does my version number change when I restart my computer?
Not usually. Your version only changes when Microsoft releases a new update and your computer installs it. Restarting does not change the version number, though it may be required to finish installing an update.
What should I do if Windows Update says my computer is up to date but the version looks old?
Wait a few days and check again. Microsoft rolls out updates gradually, so your computer may not receive the latest version when ready. If you want to force an update, go to Settings > System > Windows Update and click "Check for updates" again.