How to Check Which Operating System You Are Using
In today’s digital age, it is crucial to know which operating system (OS) you are using, as it affects the software compatibility, system performance, and overall user experience. Whether you are troubleshooting an issue, looking for specific software, or simply curious about your system, checking the operating system is a fundamental task. This article will guide you through the steps to determine which operating system you are using on both Windows and macOS computers.
Checking Your Operating System on Windows
1. Using the System Information Tool:
– Press the `Windows` key and type “System Information” in the search bar.
– Click on the “System Information” app from the search results.
– In the System Information window, look for the “Item” column and scroll down to find “OS Version.” The value next to it will indicate your operating system, such as Windows 10, Windows 11, etc.
2. Checking the System from the Start Menu:
– Click on the `Start` button located at the bottom left corner of your screen.
– Select “Settings” from the menu that appears.
– In the Settings window, click on “System” from the left-hand pane.
– Scroll down to the “Windows edition” section, and you will see the name and version of your operating system.
3. Using the About Your PC Page:
– Press the `Windows` key and type “About your PC” in the search bar.
– Click on the “About your PC” link from the search results.
– On the About your PC page, you will find information about your operating system, including the version and edition.
Checking Your Operating System on macOS
1. Using the About This Mac Option:
– Click on the Apple menu in the top left corner of your screen.
– Select “About This Mac” from the dropdown menu.
– In the About This Mac window, you will find the name and version of your operating system, such as macOS Monterey, macOS Big Sur, etc.
2. Using the System Report:
– Click on the Apple menu in the top left corner of your screen.
– Select “System Report” from the dropdown menu.
– In the System Report window, navigate to the “Software” section and look for the “OS Version” to find the operating system name and version.
Knowing which operating system you are using can help you make informed decisions about software installation, hardware compatibility, and system maintenance. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily check your operating system on both Windows and macOS computers.
