Finding out which version to use takes less than a minute. We show you how it works.
Enlarge
How to find out what version of Windows you’re using
© Sompetch Khanakornpratip / Shutterstock
There is Windows 7, 8.1, 10 or 11 and we will show you how to find out which version you are using. If it’s Windows 7, we recommend you upgrade as this version is no longer supported. It’s just as important to know which edition you’re using, i.e., either the Home or Pro version. Some features are only available to you in Windows Pro, like BitLocker, which lets you encrypt your storage drive. Here you will find
6 good reasons to switch from Windows Home to Windows Pro.
Tip: Windows 11 Pro for only 70 euros in the PC-WELT software store
No matter what information you need, finding out what Windows you’re using is easy. You can do this in several ways:
Method 1: Use the This PC icon on your desktop
Enlarge
Here you will find information about which version of Windows you are using
If you right-click the This PC icon on your Windows desktop, you can choose Properties. The system configuration window will appear. Under “Windows Specifications”, you can find your version of Windows (approximately: 21H1) and edition (Windows Pro or Home). Including the build number of the operating system.
This assumes that “This PC” actually shows up on the desktop. You can enable icon display through “Desktop Icon Settings” (in “Settings, Personalization, Themes, then “Desktop Icon Settings”).
Method 2 – Through Windows Search
Enlarge
In the “System Information” window you will also find all information about the version of Windows used
Press the Windows key on your keyboard or click the Start icon on your taskbar, then type “system.” “System Information” should appear in the search results. Clicking it will bring up a window with your version and edition of Windows.
Method 3: Through Settings
Click the Start icon on the taskbar or press the Windows key on your keyboard and type “PC Information” and click the search result. Then in the new window scroll down to “Windows Specifications
“.
Method 6: From the Run window
Press Windows Key + R on your keyboard. The Run window will appear. Type “winver” into the text box, then press Enter. In the center of the window is the copyright information for your version and edition of Windows.
Would you like to upgrade?
Want to check your version of Windows because you’re interested in upgrading to Windows 11? Take a look at our
Tips for moving to Windows 11.
If you are looking for more features for Windows 10, we have a guide for that.
Windows 10 update
Start in Pro.
Introvert. Beer guru. Communicator. Travel fanatic. Web advocate. Certified alcohol geek. Tv buff. Subtly charming internet aficionado.
