Each Microsoft Windows operating system has a familiar name, such as Windows 11 or Windows Vista, but behind each common name is an actual Windows version number1.

Windows Version Numbers

Below is a list of major Windows versions and their associated version numbers:

You can determine your Windows version a number of ways if you want to check which build number you’re currently running.

[1] More specific than a version number, at least in Windows, is a build number, often indicating exactly what major update or service pack has been applied to that Windows version. This is the last number shown in the version number column, like 7600 for Windows 7. Some sources note the build number in parenthesis, like 6.1 (7600).

[2] Windows XP Professional 64-bit had its own version number of 5.2. As far as we know, that’s the only time Microsoft has designated a special version number for a specific edition and architecture-type of a Windows operating system.

[3] Service pack updates to Windows XP did update the build number but in a very minor and long-winded way. For example, Windows XP with SP3 and other small updates is listed as having a version number of 5.1 (Build 2600.xpsp_sp3_qfe.130704-0421 : Service Pack 3).

How to Update Windows

To update Windows to the newest build number, use Windows Update. The built-in Windows Update utility is the easiest way to check for and install Windows updates.

If you haven’t set up your version of Windows to install updates automatically, you can change the Windows Update settings so that new updates are downloaded and applied automatically. It’s the simplest way to keep Windows updated to the latest version number.

Major Changes in Windows 10

Microsoft introduced several changes to the Windows operating system with Windows 10. These are some of the most significant differences between Windows 10 and Windows 8 (and older versions of Windows):

  • Cortana comes built-in to Windows 10
  • Microsoft Edge is pre-installed as a replacement browser for Internet Explorer
  • Brand-new versions of Mail, Calendar, Maps, and Photos
  • Expanded notifications are available through Windows Action Center
  • User interface that works well with both touch screen displays and traditional monitors that use a keyboard and mouse
  • Windows 10’s Start menu replaces the full-screen Windows 8 Start Screen
  • Microsoft Paint 3D replaces Microsoft Paint
  • Share files wirelessly with other PCs using Windows Nearby Sharing
  • Set quiet hours by blocking notifications with Windows Focus Assist
  • Windows Hello lets you log in to Windows 10, apps, and websites with your face
  • Play Xbox One games on your Windows computer

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