How to determine the version of Windows on a computer

Updated: 11/30/2020 by Computer Hope
Microsoft Windows 10 logo

Due to there being numerous versions of Windows, you may want to know what version you're running. The following sections shows you which version of Windows is currently installed on your computer (e.g., Windows Vista or Windows 10), and the specific version and build numbers.

Note

You must be logged in to Windows to utilize any of the methods listed below.

Tip

See our Windows definition for more information about Microsoft Windows, including its versions and history.

Determine the version of Windows

  1. Press the Windows key+R to bring up the Run window.
  2. Type winver in the text field and press Enter.

winver command

  1. A window appears that shows the version of Windows you're running at the top, and then the version and build numbers in the section below.

About Windows version and build numbers.

Tip

If you're curious about whether it's 32-bit or 64-bit, see: How to determine if you have a 32-bit or 64-bit CPU.

Alternative methods

Some network administrators restrict access to the run prompt. In this case, you can find Windows version info using the alternative methods below.

Find version in System

Open the System window by pressing the Windows key+Pause key at the same time. The version is listed on the right side under the Windows edition section.

System window in Windows 10.

Find version in System Information

Press the Windows key, type System Information, and then press Enter. The version of windows and its build number can be found by clicking System Summary on the left side of the window.

Windows version displayed in the System Information tool.

Find version using the Command Prompt

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd, and then press Enter.
  2. Type ver and press Enter.
  3. The version of Windows is displayed on the next line.

Windows version displayed in Command Prompt.

Determine Windows version on mobile devices

If you're running Windows CE on a mobile device, such as a cell phone or PDA, you can determine the version by following the steps below.

  1. Click Start, Settings, and then Control Panel.
  2. Click the Systems icon.
  3. In the System Properties window, you'll see the version and build number of Windows CE.