How do I find out what Windows I am running?

How Do I Find Out What Windows I Am Running?

Are you unsure about the version of Windows you’re currently using? Well, you’re not alone! Many Windows users are often unclear about their operating system’s version and build number. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of identifying the Windows version you’re running, so you can stay updated and secure.

Direct Answer: How Do I Find Out What Windows I Am Running?

The simplest way to find out what Windows you’re running is by following these steps:

1. Open the Start menu: Click on the Start button (represented by a Windows logo) in the lower-left corner of your screen.
2. Right-click on the Start button: Right-click on the Start button to open the Windows Quick Links menu.
3. Click on System: In the Quick Links menu, click on the "System" option. This will open the System properties window.
4. Check your Windows version: In the System properties window, look for the "Windows version" field, which displays the operating system’s name, version, and build number (e.g., "Windows 10, version 20H2" or "Windows 11, version 21H2").

Identifying Your Windows Version: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a more detailed guide to help you identify your Windows version:

Method 1: Using the System Properties Window

1. Right-click on the Start button: Open the Quick Links menu by right-clicking on the Start button.
2. Click on System: Select the "System" option in the Quick Links menu.
3. Check the Windows version: In the System properties window, look for the "Windows version" field, which displays the operating system’s name, version, and build number.

Method 2: Using the Settings App

1. Open the Settings app: Click on the Start button and type "Settings" in the search bar. Then, click on the "Settings" app.
2. Click on System: In the Settings app, select the "System" option from the left-hand menu.
3. Check the Windows version: In the System settings window, look for the "Windows specifications" section, which displays the operating system’s name, version, and build number.

Method 3: Using the Windows Explorer

1. Open This PC: Open the "This PC" folder by clicking on the Start button and typing "This PC" in the search bar.
2. Right-click on This PC: Right-click on the "This PC" folder and select "Properties".
3. Check the Windows version: In the System properties window, look for the "Windows version" field, which displays the operating system’s name, version, and build number.

Determining Your Windows Build Number

In addition to identifying your Windows version, it’s also essential to determine your build number. The build number is a unique identifier that helps you track updates and patches released by Microsoft. Here’s how to find your build number:

Method 1: Using the System Properties Window

1. Open the System properties window: Follow the same steps as above to open the System properties window.
2. Check the Build number: In the System properties window, look for the "System variables" section, which displays the build number (e.g., "Version 20H2" or "Version 21H2").

Method 2: Using the Command Prompt

1. Open the Command Prompt: Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box and type "cmd" to open the Command Prompt.
2. Type the following command and press Enter: Type the following command and press Enter: wmic os get osname

Additional Tips and Tricks

• Check for updates: Make sure your Windows is up-to-date by clicking on the Start button and selecting "Update & Security" (in the Settings app).
• Clear browser data: Clear your browser’s cache and cookies to ensure you’re not storing outdated data that may affect your Windows version identification.
• Consult online resources: If you’re still unsure about your Windows version, consult online resources, such as Microsoft’s official support pages or online forums, for more information.

Conclusion

Identifying your Windows version is a simple process that can help you stay secure, and it’s essential for troubleshooting issues and ensuring you’re running the latest updates. By following the methods outlined above, you can easily determine your Windows version and build number. Remember to regularly check for updates and clear your browser data to ensure accuracy.