The quickest way to check your Windows version

Open the Settings app by pressing the Windows key and the letter I at the same time. In the left sidebar, click System. Scroll down and click About. Look for the line that says Edition — this tells you whether you have Windows 10 or Windows 11. Below that, the Version line shows the specific update number.

That's the method most people need. If Settings doesn't open or you prefer a different route, the sections below show other ways to find the same information.

Key Takeaways

  • Settings > System > About shows your Windows edition and version number in one place.
  • Windows 10 and Windows 11 look slightly different in Settings, but both have the About section in the same location.
  • If Settings won't open, you can right-click "This PC" on your desktop or in File Explorer to reach the same information.
  • Your version number (like 22H2) tells you which security updates you have installed, and you can compare it to Microsoft's current version to see if you need updates.

Finding your version through File Explorer

If the Settings app won't open, right-click on This PC in File Explorer — the folder icon on your taskbar. Select Properties from the menu that appears. A window opens showing the same information: your Windows edition at the top and the version number partway down the page.

File Explorer is often faster to open than Settings, especially on older computers. This route works the same way on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Using the Run command for a quick lookup

Press the Windows key and the letter R together. A small box labeled Run appears. Type winver and press Enter. A window opens showing your Windows edition, version number, and build number all at once.

This method is the fastest if you already know the keyboard shortcut. The information appears in the same format every time, making it straightforward to read and share with someone helping you troubleshoot.

What the version number actually means

Windows versions use a number like 22H2 or 21H2. The number tells you which major update you have installed. Microsoft releases new versions twice a year, usually in spring and fall. The letter H stands for "half" — so 22H2 means the second half of 2022.

Your build number (a longer number like 19045.3693) is more specific. It shows exactly which security patches and fixes you have. If you're troubleshooting a problem, knowing your build number helps someone determine whether a fix has already been released for your computer.

Checking if you need a Windows update

Once you know your version number, you can see whether Microsoft has released a newer one. Visit the Windows release information page on Microsoft's website and find your edition (Windows 10 or Windows 11). Compare the version number listed there to the one on your computer.

If your version is older, go to Settings > System > Windows Update and click Check for updates. Windows downloads and installs the latest version automatically. Your computer may restart during this process, so save your work first.

Understanding Windows 10 versus Windows 11

Windows 10 and Windows 11 are two separate editions. You cannot upgrade from one to the other through normal updates — they are different operating systems. If you have Windows 10, your version numbers will be in the 21H2 or 22H2 range. Windows 11 versions start at 21H2 and continue from there.

The Settings app looks slightly different between the two, but the path to find your version is identical: Settings > System > About. If you're unsure which one you have, the Edition line in the About section will say "Windows 10" or "Windows 11" clearly.

What to do if you cannot find your version information

If none of these methods work, your Windows installation may be corrupted or incomplete. Try restarting your computer first — this fixes many temporary problems. After the restart, try the Settings method again.

If Settings still won't open and the Run command doesn't work, you may need to repair Windows. Go to Settings > System > Recovery and look for a Reset this PC option. This process reinstalls Windows while keeping your files, though it can take an hour or more. Back up your important files before starting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need to know my Windows version?

Your version number tells you whether you have the latest security updates installed. Older versions may have known security problems that hackers can exploit. Knowing your version helps you determine whether to update, and it helps technical support staff understand what fixes are available for your computer.

Is Windows 10 still supported?

Windows 10 receives security updates through October 2025. After that date, Microsoft will stop releasing patches, and your computer becomes more vulnerable to new threats. Windows 11 is the current edition and will receive updates for many years longer.

Can I downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10?

Downgrading is possible but complicated and requires technical knowledge. Most people should stay with the edition their computer came with. If you're having problems with Windows 11, updating to the latest version usually fixes them before downgrading becomes necessary.

What's the difference between version and build number?

Version (like 22H2) is the major release number that Microsoft publishes twice a year. Build number (like 19045.3693) is more specific and changes with every security patch. You only need the version number for most purposes, but the build number is useful when troubleshooting specific problems.

Do I have to restart my computer to install a Windows update?

Yes, Windows requires a restart to finish installing updates. You can delay the restart for a few hours, but it will eventually happen automatically. Save your work before checking for updates, or check for updates at a time when you don't mind your computer restarting.