Knowing your Windows 11 version is useful when installing software, troubleshooting issues, or confirming whether your PC is eligible for new features and security updates. Microsoft regularly releases feature updates, such as Windows 11 version 24H2, along with monthly cumulative updates. Many applications and hardware drivers also require a specific Windows version or build number to work correctly.
Windows 11 provides several ways to view this information. You can check it through the Settings app, the About Windows (winver) dialog, System Information, Command Prompt, PowerShell, or even the Registry Editor. These methods display details such as the Windows edition, version, OS build, and installation date.
In this guide, you’ll learn the best ways to check your Windows 11 version.
What Is the Windows 11 Version?
The Windows 11 version identifies the major feature update installed on your PC. Microsoft names these releases using the year and half of the year in which they were originally planned for release. For example, 24H2 refers to the second feature update planned for 2024.
Along with the version, Windows also includes an OS build number, which changes with monthly cumulative updates and helps identify the exact release running on your computer.
Method 1: Check the Windows Version from Settings
The Settings app is the easiest place to view your Windows version and build information.
Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Select System from the left pane, then scroll down and click About.
Expand the Windows specifications section.
Here you’ll find details such as the Windows edition, version, installation date, and OS build.
This method is ideal for most users because it displays all the important Windows information in one place.
Method 2: Use the Winver Command
The winver command opens the About Windows dialog, which displays the Windows version and build number.
Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
Type the following command and press Enter:
winverA window appears showing the Windows edition, version, and OS build.
This is one of the quickest ways to verify your Windows installation.
Method 3: Check the Version Using System Information
System Information provides detailed information about Windows and your hardware.
Press Windows + R, type:
msinfo32Press Enter.
In the System Summary, locate entries such as OS Name, Version, and System Type.
This utility is especially useful when gathering system details for troubleshooting or technical support.
Method 4: Check the Windows Version Using Command Prompt
Command Prompt includes commands that display the Windows version and build number.
Open Command Prompt.
Run the following command:
systeminfoWait for Windows to gather the information.
Look for OS Name, OS Version, and related entries in the output.
For a quicker result, you can also use:
verThis displays the current Windows build number.
Method 5: Check the Version Using PowerShell
PowerShell provides another easy way to retrieve Windows version information.
Open Windows PowerShell or Windows Terminal.
Run:
Get-ComputerInfo | Select WindowsProductName, WindowsVersion, OsBuildNumberPowerShell displays the Windows edition, version, and build number.
This method is popular among IT administrators and advanced users.
Method 6: View the Windows Version Using Registry Editor
Windows stores version information in the Registry.
Press Windows + R, type:
regeditPress Enter.
Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersionOn the right side, look for values such as:
- DisplayVersion
- CurrentBuild
- ProductName
- EditionID
These entries show the installed Windows version and edition.
Method 7: Check the Version with DirectX Diagnostic Tool
The DirectX Diagnostic Tool also displays basic operating system information.
Press Windows + R.
Type:
dxdiagPress Enter.
The System tab displays your Windows version near the bottom of the window.
Although primarily designed for graphics diagnostics, this tool also provides operating system details.
Method 8: Check Windows Version Using WMIC
Some Windows 11 installations still support the Windows Management Instrumentation Command-line (WMIC) tool.
Open Command Prompt.
Run:
wmic os get Caption, Version, BuildNumberThe command displays the Windows edition, version, and build number.
Keep in mind that WMIC has been deprecated and may not be available on newer Windows releases.
Method 9: Check Windows Version Using File Explorer
You can also view basic Windows information through File Explorer.
Open File Explorer.
Right-click This PC and select Properties.
The Settings app opens directly to the About page, where you can view your Windows specifications.
This provides a quick shortcut if you’re already working in File Explorer.
Method 10: Check the Latest Windows Version Through Windows Update
If you want to know whether you’re running the latest Windows version, check for updates.
Open Settings > Windows Update.
Click Check for updates.
If a newer feature update is available, Windows will notify you and provide the option to download and install it.
This method helps ensure your PC stays up to date with the latest features and security improvements.
Conclusion
Checking your Windows 11 version is simple and only takes a few moments. For most users, the About page in the Settings app or the winver command provides all the information needed, including the Windows edition, version, and OS build. Advanced users can also use PowerShell, Command Prompt, Registry Editor, or System Information to retrieve more detailed system information.
Knowing your Windows version can help you determine software compatibility, troubleshoot issues, and confirm whether your PC is running the latest feature update. It’s a good habit to check your Windows version periodically, especially before installing new applications or following technical guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between the Windows version and OS build?
The Windows version (such as 24H2) identifies the major feature update, while the OS build changes with monthly cumulative updates and indicates the exact release installed.
How do I know if I’m running the latest version of Windows 11?
Open Settings > Windows Update and click Check for updates. Windows will notify you if a newer feature update or cumulative update is available.
Can I check my Windows version without opening Settings?
Yes. Press Windows + R, type winver, and press Enter. The About Windows dialog displays your version and build number.
Why do some applications require a specific Windows version?
Some apps rely on features or APIs introduced in newer Windows releases. Running the required Windows version helps ensure the application functions correctly and securely.
