The fastest way to check your Windows version
Open the Settings app by pressing Windows key + I on your keyboard. Go to System in the left menu, then scroll down and click About. Your Windows version appears under "Edition" — you'll see something like "Windows 11 Home" or "Windows 10 Pro" — and the specific build number is listed as "OS Build".
That's the method most people use because it's the quickest. But there are two other ways that work just as well, depending on what you're comfortable with.
Key Takeaways
- Settings > System > About shows your Windows edition and build number in under 30 seconds.
- The Run dialog (Windows key + R, then type "winver") opens a dedicated version window with all the details in one place.
- Command Prompt or PowerShell can retrieve version information if you prefer typing commands, using "systeminfo" or "Get-ComputerInfo".
- Your build number matters more than the edition number when troubleshooting — it tells you exactly which update you're on.
Using the Run dialog for a dedicated version window
Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box. Type winver and press Enter. A window titled "About Windows" opens showing your edition, version number, and OS build all at once.
This method is useful if you want to screenshot or share the information, because everything appears in a single window rather than scattered across the Settings app. The build number here is the same one you'd find in Settings, but it's easier to read and copy. Many people prefer this route when they're on a support call and need to relay their version quickly.
Checking version through Command Prompt or PowerShell
Right-click the Start button and select Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin) — the name depends on your Windows version. Type systeminfo and press Enter. Scroll up to find "OS Name" and "OS Version" in the list that appears.
This method returns more information than you probably need — it also shows your processor, RAM, and network details — but it's reliable and works on every Windows machine. The "OS Version" line will show something like "10.0.19045" for Windows 10 or "10.0.22631" for Windows 11.
If you're using PowerShell instead, you can type Get-ComputerInfo | Select-Object OSName, OSVersion to see just the version information without the extra details. Both commands give you the same underlying data.
What the version numbers actually mean
Windows versions come in two parts: the edition (Home, Pro, Enterprise) and the build number. The edition tells you which features are available on your machine. The build number tells you which updates you've installed.
When you're troubleshooting a problem or checking if your computer meets software requirements, the build number matters more. Two computers running "Windows 11 Pro" might have different build numbers — one could be on build 22621 and another on 22631 — and that difference can affect whether a program runs correctly or whether a security patch is installed.
You might also see a version label like "21H2" or "22H2" in your Settings. These refer to the year and half-year of the release — 21H2 means 2021, second half. This label is less important than the build number for most purposes, but it helps you understand when your current version was originally released.
Why you might need to know your version
You need this information when installing software that requires a specific Windows version, when contacting technical support, or when checking whether your computer qualifies for a security update. Some programs only work on Windows 10, others only on Windows 11. Some features require a minimum build number.
If you're buying new software or checking system requirements online, knowing your exact version and build number prevents you from downloading something your computer can't run. Technical support staff will almost always ask for your build number first, because it narrows down which updates you have and which bugs might affect you.
How to update Windows if you're behind
If you discover your build number is older than you expected, Windows Update can bring you current. Open Settings, go to System, then click Windows Update on the left. Click Check for updates and Windows will download and install any available patches.
Updates usually install automatically, but checking manually ensures you're not missing anything. After an update completes, your build number will change. You can verify the new number by returning to Settings > System > About.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Windows 10 and Windows 11?
Windows 11 is the newer operating system, released in 2021. Windows 10 is still supported but older. If you see "Windows 10" in your Settings, you're on the older version. If you see "Windows 11", you're on the newer one. Both are still receiving security updates, though Windows 10 support ends in October 2025.
Does my build number change when I update Windows?
Yes. Every time Windows installs a security update or feature update, the build number increases. You might see your OS Build change from 22621 to 22631 after an update. This is normal and means your computer has the latest patches installed.
Can I find my Windows version on the login screen?
No, the login screen doesn't show version information. You have to log in first, then use Settings, the Run dialog, or Command Prompt to check. If you're locked out of your account, you can still use the Run dialog or Command Prompt from the login screen by pressing Shift + F10.
What if I see different version numbers in different places?
Settings, the winver window, and Command Prompt all pull from the same source, so the numbers should match. If they don't, restart your computer and check again — sometimes the display hasn't refreshed after an update. If they still differ, a restart usually fixes it.
Does knowing my version help with security?
Yes. Your build number tells you which security patches you have installed. Older build numbers mean you're missing recent security updates. Checking your version regularly and updating when prompted helps protect your computer from known vulnerabilities.