Each version of Microsoft Windows has a well-known name, like Windows 11 or Windows Vista. However, there is an actual Windows version number behind each name.
Tip: There are several ways to find out what version of Windows you’re running and what build number you’re using. |
Window Version Numbers
Here is a list of the most popular versions of Windows and the window version numbers that proceed with them:
Table for Windows Version Numbers | ||
---|---|---|
Operating System | Version Details | Version Number |
Windows 11 | Windows 11 (23H2) | 10.0.22631 |
Windows 11 (22H2) | 10.0.22621 | |
Windows 11 (21H2) | 10.0.22000 | |
Windows 10 | Windows 10 (21H2) | 10.0.19044 |
Windows 10 (21H1) | 10.0.19043 | |
Windows 10 (20H2) | 10.0.19042 | |
Windows 10 (2004) | 10.0.19041 | |
Windows 10 (1909) | 10.0.18363 | |
Windows 10 (1903) | 10.0.18362 | |
Windows 10 (1809) | 10.0.17763 | |
Windows 10 (1803) | 10.0.17134 | |
Windows 10 (1709) | 10.0.16299 | |
Windows 10 (1703) | 10.0.15063 | |
Windows 10 (1607) | 10.0.14393 | |
Windows 10 (1511) | 10.0.10586 | |
Windows 10 | 10.0.10240 | |
Windows 8 | Windows 8.1 (Update 1) | 6.3.9600 |
Windows 8.1 | 6.3.9200 | |
Windows 8 | 6.2.9200 | |
Windows 7 | Windows 7 SP1 | 6.1.7601 |
Windows 7 | 6.1.7600 | |
Windows Vista | Windows Vista SP2 | 6.0.6002 |
Windows Vista SP1 | 6.0.6001 | |
Windows Vista | 6.0.6000 | |
Windows XP | Windows XP2 | 5.1.26003 |
[1] In Windows, a build number is more specific than a version number because it often tells you what big update or service pack has been added to that version of Windows. In the version number field, this is the last number that is shown, like 7600 for Windows 7. In some places, the build number is written in parentheses, such as 6.1 (7600).
[2] The number 5.2 was unique to Windows XP Professional 64-bit. So far as we know, that’s the only time Microsoft has given a different version number to a different model and type of architecture for a Windows operating system.
[3] When Windows XP service packs were released, the build number was changed, but it was a very small and complicated process. The version number for Windows XP with SP3 and some other small changes is given as 5.1 (Build 2600.xpsp_sp3_qfe.130704-0421: Service Pack 3).
How to Update Windows
Windows Update is the best way to get Windows to the newest build number. The best way to find and install Windows updates is to use the built-in Windows Update tool.
Change the settings for Windows Update so that new updates are downloaded and installed automatically. This will work even if you have yet to choose to have updates installed regularly. It’s the easiest way to make sure that Windows always has the most recent version.
Major Changes in Windows 10
With Windows 10, Microsoft made a number of changes to the Windows operating system. Here are some of the most important ways that Windows 10 is different from Windows 8 and previous versions of Windows:
- Window 10 includes Cortana built-in.
- Internet Explorer can be replaced with Microsoft Edge, which comes pre-installed.
- All of Mail, Calendar, Maps, and Photos have seen major updates.
- The Windows Action Center lets you get more alerts.
- An easy-to-use interface that works well with both touch screens and regular computers with a keyboard and mouse
- Instead of the full-screen button, Windows 10 has a Start bar. The start screen of Windows 8
- Microsoft Paint 3D takes the place of Microsoft Paint
- Windows Nearby Sharing lets you share files freely with other PCs.
- Use Windows Focus Assist to block alerts during quiet times.
- You can use your face to log in to Windows 10, apps, and websites with Windows Hello.
- You can play Xbox One games on a Windows PC.
FAQs
- How do I determine which version of Windows I’m running?You can find out your Windows version by going to your PC’s settings. Navigate to “System” and then “About,” where you’ll see the Windows edition and version number listed.
- What’s the significance of Windows build numbers compared to version numbers?Build numbers indicate specific updates or service packs applied to a particular version of Windows. They offer more detailed information about the system’s update status compared to version numbers.
- How can I ensure my Windows system stays up to date with the latest build number?The most effective method is to enable automatic updates through the Windows Update tool. This ensures that your system receives the latest patches and improvements automatically.
- Are there any notable changes between Windows 10 and its predecessors?Yes, Windows 10 introduced several significant changes, including the integration of Cortana, the replacement of Internet Explorer with Microsoft Edge, enhancements to built-in apps like Mail and Photos, and the introduction of features like Windows Hello for facial recognition login.
- Can I upgrade my current version of Windows to a newer one without losing data?Yes, you can typically upgrade to newer versions of Windows while preserving your data and applications. Microsoft provides tools and instructions for performing such upgrades, but it’s always advisable to back up important files before proceeding with any major updates.