How to Check What Windows You Have
In today’s digital age, knowing which version of Windows you are running on your computer is crucial for several reasons. Whether you need to check for compatibility with certain software, troubleshoot issues, or simply keep your system up-to-date, understanding your Windows version is essential. This article will guide you through the process of checking what Windows version you have on your computer.
Using the System Information Tool
One of the simplest ways to check your Windows version is by using the built-in System Information tool. Here’s how to do it:
1. Press the “Windows” key on your keyboard and type “System Information” in the search bar.
2. Click on the “System Information” app that appears in the search results.
3. In the System Information window, look for the “Item” column and scroll down to find “OS Version.”
4. The value next to “OS Version” will display the version of Windows you are running.
Checking the About Windows Page
Another straightforward method to check your Windows version is by accessing the About Windows page. Follow these steps:
1. Click on the “Start” button and select “Settings” from the menu.
2. In the Settings window, click on “System.”
3. On the left-hand side, click on “About.”
4. Scroll down to the “Windows specifications” section, where you will find the “Version” and “OS build” information.
Using the Command Prompt
If you prefer using the Command Prompt, here’s how to check your Windows version:
1. Press the “Windows” key and type “cmd” in the search bar.
2. Right-click on the “Command Prompt” app and select “Run as administrator.”
3. In the Command Prompt window, type “systeminfo” and press Enter.
4. Look for the “OS Version” entry in the list of system information displayed.
Checking the Product Key
If you’re unable to access the System Information tool or the About Windows page, you can also check your Windows version by looking at the product key. Here’s how:
1. Press the “Windows” key and type “cmd” in the search bar.
2. Right-click on the “Command Prompt” app and select “Run as administrator.”
3. In the Command Prompt window, type “wmic os get name” and press Enter.
4. The output will display your Windows version and edition.
By following these methods, you can easily check what Windows version you have on your computer. This information will help you make informed decisions about your system’s compatibility, updates, and troubleshooting.
