Knowing the Windows version is essential for software compatibility, troubleshooting, and receiving the correct updates. It helps identify system requirements, driver support, and security patches, ensuring optimal performance and functionality.
To check the version of Windows installed on your computer, follow these steps:
On Windows 10:
- Click on the “Start” button, usually located at the bottom-left corner of the screen.
- Click on the “Settings” icon (gear-shaped) to open the Windows Settings.
- In the Settings window, select “System.”
- In the left-hand menu, scroll down and click on “About.”
- Look for the “Windows specifications” section on the right-hand side.
- Here, you will see the “Edition” and “Version” information, indicating the specific version of Windows 10 you have installed, like “Windows 10 Home,” “Windows 10 Pro,” and the version number, such as “Version 1909” or “Version 2004.”
On Windows 8/8.1:
- Press the “Windows key + X” on your keyboard to open the Quick Access Menu.
- Click on “System” from the list of options.
- In the System window, you will find the version information under the “Windows edition” section.
On Windows 7:
- Click on the “Start” button, usually located at the bottom-left corner of the screen.
- Right-click on “Computer” or “My Computer” (depending on your settings).
- Select “Properties.”
- In the System Properties window, you will find the version information under the “Windows edition” or “Windows edition” section.
The version information will typically include the edition of Windows (e.g., Windows 10 Home, Windows 7 Professional, etc.) and the version number (e.g., Version 1909, Version 2004, etc.).
How to differentiate between 32 bits and 64 bits windows
To differentiate between a 32-bit and 64-bit Windows operating system, you can follow these steps:
Method 1: Through System Information
- Press the “Windows key + R” on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
- Type “msinfo32” (without quotes) and press Enter. This will open the System Information window.
- Look for the “System Type” entry in the right pane.
- If it says “x64-based PC” or “x86-64” under “System Type,” you have a 64-bit Windows version. If it says “x86-based PC,” you have a 32-bit Windows version.
Method 2: Through Control Panel
- Open the Control Panel from the Start menu.
- Click on “System and Security.”
- Under “System,” click on “View amount of RAM and processor speed.”
- Look for the “System type” entry.
- If it says “64-bit Operating System,” you have a 64-bit Windows version. If it says “32-bit Operating System,” you have a 32-bit Windows version.
Alternatively, if you know the path to the Control Panel, you can directly go to “Control Panel > System and Security > System” to find the “System type” information.
Please note that the steps may vary slightly depending on the version of Windows you are using, but the general process remains similar for most Windows versions.