How to See Which Windows Version You’re Using
Step 1: Check Your Device Settings
The first way to determine which Windows version you’re using is to check your device settings. Start by pressing the Windows key + Pause/Break on your keyboard. This will open the Device Manager, which is a utility tool that allows you to manage and troubleshoot your device’s hardware.
Click on "System" in the left-hand menu to expand the submenu. In the System tab, you’ll see a list of your installed operating systems, including Windows. Check the list for your version.
Alternatively, you can use the "About" feature in Windows. To do this:
- Press the Windows key + S to open the Search bar.
- Type "About" in the Search bar and press Enter.
- Click on "About Windows" to open the About Windows window.
- Click on the "Windows version" tab to see your Windows version.
Step 2: Check the Start Menu
The second way to determine which Windows version you’re using is to check the Start menu. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app, which is a new feature in Windows 10 and later versions.
- In the Settings app, click on System in the left-hand menu.
- Click on About to see your Windows version.
Check the Windows version listed on the right-hand side of the window. This will show you the version number of your Windows installation.
Step 3: Check the Registry
The third way to determine which Windows version you’re using is to check the Registry. The Registry is a database that stores information about your device and installed applications. To access the Registry, you’ll need administrative privileges, which can be obtained by:
- Pressing the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- typing
regeditand pressing Enter. - Pressing Ctrl + Shift + I to open the Registry Editor.
Under the [Computer] section, look for a key called Microsoft-Windows-Security- Authentication**. If this key exists, it means your device is using Windows 10 or later versions. However, if this key does not exist, it may indicate that your device is using Windows 8 or earlier versions.
Note: The Windows Registry is not the most secure way to identify your Windows version, as it can be modified by malicious software.
Step 4: Check the Manufacturer’s Website
The fourth way to determine which Windows version you’re using is to check the manufacturer’s website. Each manufacturer’s website has a section dedicated to their Windows operating system, which can include information about the version number, updates, and compatibility.
Some examples of manufacturers and their websites:
- Microsoft: <https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows PCs-and-devices>
- Dell: https://www.dell.com/en-us/accessories/server-center/bi-solutions
- HP: https://www.hp.com/us-en/software/dell-recall-policer/
- Lenovo: https://www.laptopstart.com/learn/windows
Table: Comparison of Windows Versions
| Windows Version | Windows 10 | Windows 8 | Windows 7 | Windows Vista | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Architecture | x86-64 | x86 | x86 | x86 | |
| Licensing | 10th Anniversary Edition | Rebranding from 7, 8, 8.1, and 10 | 7/8/7 SP1 | Genuine Windows 7 | |
| Updates | Windows Update for Business | Windows Update for Business | Windows Update for Business | Windows Update | Windows Update for Business |
| Compatibility | Excellent | Good | Good | Good | Good |
| Security | Strong | Good | Good | Good | Good |
Conclusion
Determining which Windows version you’re using can be a straightforward process that involves checking your device settings, looking at the Start menu, using the Registry, and checking the manufacturer’s website. While this method is not foolproof, it can provide you with a good idea of which version you’re using.