How to find out which version of Windows is installed on your PC

Know what version of Windows you have installed on your computer It's a simpler task than it seems, and it can be useful on more than one occasion. Not only will it allow you to know if your system is suitable for the applications you want to use, it can also help you identify if you need an update or if you have a 32-bit or 64-bit operating system. In this article we will explain, in a clear and detailed way, how you can find out which version of Windows you have using simple and accessible methods for any user.

Additionally, understanding which edition of Windows you have installed is key to customizing your experience, troubleshooting compatibility issues, or even knowing if you can enjoy the latest features that Microsoft releases with each update. If you've ever wondered how to find out which Windows you have, read on as we're going to tell you everything you need to know.

How do you know what version of Windows you have?

The quickest way to find out what version of Windows is installed on your computer is by using the command winver, which will show you a box with all the basic information. To use it, simply:

1. Press the keys at the same time Windows + R on your keyboard. This will open the 'Run' window.
2. Write "Winver" and press AcceptA new window will appear with the version of Windows you have, the build number, and the edition.

This method is fast and effective, as it provides you with all the detailed information about your system together. If for some reason this method doesn't work for you, don't worry, there are more ways to do it.

View the version from Windows Settings

If you prefer a more visual way, you can get the same information from the Configuration from the system. This is especially useful in newer versions of Windows (Windows 10 and Windows 11), where everything is more integrated and accessible.

1. Click the button Home, in the lower left corner of the screen, and select Configuration.
2. Within Settings, go to System.
3. Scroll to the bottom of the left side menu and select About.
4. Here, you will find both the version and edition of Windows you are using. Additionally, you will also see if your operating system is 32 or 64 bit, which can be useful for installing certain programs.

This method is perfect if you want to make sure you have all the information about your Windows in one place, as it also tells you other details such as device specifications.

How to know if your Windows is 32 or 64 bit?

Depending on your device's architecture, your operating system may be 32-bit or 64-bit. This is important because it affects your computer's ability to handle more memory and run certain programs. If you want to know what type of system you have, follow these steps:

1. Press the keys Windows + Pause.
2. In the window that opens, look at the section that says Type of systemThere it will tell you if your system is 32 or 64 bits.

If for some reason you cannot use this shortcut, another option is to open the Control panel, select Security system and then click SystemOn this screen you will also see the type of operating system you have installed.

Identify Windows version by its appearance

While the above methods are quick and effective, you can also identify which version of Windows you have by simply looking at the appearance of your system. For those who don't have access to a keyboard or settings, here's how to visually distinguish the most common versions of Windows.

• Windows XP: This system is recognizable by its blue taskbar and its classic green hill wallpaper (Bliss). If you see this design, you are using Windows XP.
• Windows Vista: Changes the blue bar to a black taskbar. It also allows you to incorporate Gadgets to the home screen.
• Windows 7: Visually similar to Vista, but with a flatter and thicker taskbarWindows 7 introduced improvements to multitasking and touch recognition.
• Windows 8: The main difference is that it has no start buttonThis makes it easy to identify if you don't see the classic Windows logo at the bottom left.
• Windows 8.1: Microsoft added back the Start button, but its design is still closer to Windows 8.
• Windows 10: Includes the Start button with the white Windows logo and an improved application menu. Additionally, you may see the Windows 10 Home icon. Cortana on the taskbar.
• Windows 11: The most recent version to date. It has a more modern and minimalist design, with icons centered on the taskbar and the inclusion of multiple desktops.

Other ways to obtain system information

In addition to the command winver or Settings, there are other ways to find out what operating system you have. One of the most detailed is to use the tool System information, which gives you an overview of the entire hardware and software on your computer.

To access this tool, follow these steps:

1. Open the Start menu and writes System information.
2. Click on the first result and you'll see a window with all the relevant details about your computer, including the version of Windows you have and the type of operating system.

Another option is to use the command DX Diag, which in addition to showing you the Windows version, also gives details about the graphics components of your PC. To open it, simply type "Dxdiag" in the start menu search box and press Enter.

As you can see, there are several easy ways to find out which version of Windows you have installed on your computer. This will help you make sure that your entire system is optimized, up-to-date, and running smoothly. Remember that keeping your computer up-to-date not only improves performance, but is also essential for enjoying the latest features and having an adequate level of security.