How To Know Windows 10 Or 11

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Ready to uncover which version of Windows is currently gracing your screen? It's simpler than you might think! Let's dive right in.

Step 1: The Quickest Glance - The Start Menu

Take a look at your Start Menu. The design offers a strong visual clue:

Windows 10: Typically features live tiles – dynamic icons that display frequently updated information like news, weather, or app notifications. The overall layout feels more anchored to the left side of the screen.
Windows 11: Boasts a more centered Start Menu and taskbar icons. The tiles are gone, replaced by a cleaner grid of static icons. The corners of the windows also have a noticeably rounded appearance.

While this visual check is often enough, let's explore more definitive methods.

Step 2: Delving into System Information

This method provides the most precise answer. Follow these sub-steps:

Sub-step 2.1: Accessing System Information

There are a few ways to get here:

Using the Search Bar (Recommended):
1. Click on the Start button (the Windows logo, usually in the bottom-left corner).
2. Type System Information.
3. Click on the System Information app that appears in the search results.
Using the Run Dialog:
1. Press the Windows key + R simultaneously. This will open the "Run" dialog box.
2. Type msinfo32 and press Enter or click OK.

Sub-step 2.2: Locating the Windows Version

Once the System Information window opens, you'll see a summary of your computer's specifications. Look for the following entry:

Operating System Name: This line will clearly state which version of Windows you are running.
- For Windows 10, it will typically read something like "Microsoft Windows 10 [version name]" (e.g., Microsoft Windows 10 Pro, Microsoft Windows 10 Home). You might also see the specific build number.
- For Windows 11, it will clearly say "Microsoft Windows 11 [version name]" (e.g., Microsoft Windows 11 Pro, Microsoft Windows 11 Home). Again, the build number will likely be listed.
Version: This entry will provide the specific version number and build number. For example, Windows 10 might show "Version 21H2 (OS Build 19044.xxxx)" and Windows 11 might show "Version 22H2 (OS Build 22621.xxxx)". While these numbers can be helpful for specific updates, the "Operating System Name" is usually the easiest to identify.

Step 3: Utilizing the 'winver' Command

This is a quick and direct command to reveal your Windows version.

Press the Windows key + R to open the "Run" dialog box.
Type winver and press Enter or click OK.
A small "About Windows" window will appear. The very first line will clearly indicate which version of Windows you are running (e.g., "Microsoft Windows Version 10" or "Microsoft Windows Version 11"). It will also show the specific build number.

Step 4: Checking Settings (Another Simple Method)

You can also find this information within the Windows Settings app.

Sub-step 4.1: Opening the Settings App

Click on the Start button and then click on the gear icon (Settings). Alternatively, press the Windows key + I simultaneously.

Sub-step 4.2: Navigating to the 'About' Section

In the Settings app, click on System.
Scroll down in the left-hand sidebar and click on About.
On the right-hand side, under the "Windows specifications" section, you will find the Version and OS build, clearly indicating whether you are running Windows 10 or Windows 11.

Step 5: Examining Default App Icons (A Subtle Clue)

While not a foolproof method, the default icons for some built-in apps have been visually refreshed in Windows 11. For instance, the File Explorer icon has a slightly different design. However, keep in mind that users can change their icons, so this shouldn't be your sole method of identification.

How to Know Windows 10 or 11 - Frequently Asked Questions

How to quickly check my Windows version?

Open the Run dialog (Windows key + R), type winver, and press Enter. The "About Windows" box will display your version.

How to find the exact build number of my Windows?

Use the winver command or go to Settings > System > About. The build number will be listed under "OS build".

How to tell if I have Windows 11 just by looking at the taskbar?

Windows 11 typically has centered taskbar icons by default, while Windows 10's are aligned to the left. However, this can be customized.

How to check Windows version using Command Prompt?

Open Command Prompt, type ver, and press Enter. It will display the Windows version and build number.

How to know if my computer is eligible for Windows 11 upgrade?

Use the PC Health Check app provided by Microsoft. You can search for it on the Microsoft website.

How to differentiate between Windows 10 Home and Pro?

Go to Settings > System > About. Under "Edition," it will specify whether it's Home or Pro.

How to see the last major update installed on my Windows?

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click on "View update history".

How to identify if a screenshot is likely from Windows 11?

Look for rounded window corners, a centered taskbar (if visible), and the general visual style of the interface.

How to check the architecture of my Windows (32-bit or 64-bit)?

Go to Settings > System > About. Under "System type," it will show whether you have a 32-bit or 64-bit operating system.

How to confirm my Windows is activated?

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation. It will show the activation status of your Windows.

Hopefully, these steps and FAQs have clearly illuminated which version of Windows you are currently using! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!

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