Do you know which version of Windows you are using? It's easy to find out.
Most people should know that Windows 11 is the latest version of Microsoft’s operating system. That’s easy, but do you have the latest update, or are you still on an older build?
Each year, Microsoft releases a major new build for Windows 11 and Windows 10. Normally, your computer should take care of that itself with automatic updates, but there are several ways to check which version you have if you need to know.
There are several easy ways to check what version of Windows you have, but this is the easiest:
- Click the Start button and type winver.
- Launch the program that appears in the search list.
- Read the version number.
The number has the following meaning:
Windows 11:
- 23H2 – October Update 2023.
- 22H2 – September Update 2022.
- 21H2 – October Update 2021.
Windows 10:
- 22H2 – October Update 2022.
- 21H2 – November Update 2021.
Cadence of Windows updates
Windows 11 releases a 'feature update' each year. Feature updates release in the second half of the calendar year and come with 24 months of support for Windows 11 Home or Pro. For more information, see the Windows lifecycle FAQ. on the Microsoft website.
Windows 11 also releases monthly security updates on the second Tuesday of each month. These releases are cumulative, containing all previous updates to keep devices protected and productive.