Windows 11 is the first release of the new OS available starting October 5, 2021, and while it introduces an overhauled interface and new features that make it obvious that this isn’t Windows 10, it is not easy for everyone to know which version is installed on their computer.
Although the easiest way to check whether Windows 11 is already running on your computer is by simply noticing the new blue Start icon in the Taskbar or the new centered alignment for the Start menu and Taskbar, you can also check what version is installed on your laptop or desktop computer using the “winver” command and “About” settings page.
In this guide, you will learn the steps to confirm if Windows 11 is already installed on the computer.
Check if Windows 11 is installed with winver
To check whether Windows 11 is installed on your device, use these steps:
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Open Start on Windows 11.
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Search for
winverand press Enter.
Quick tip: You can also use the Windows key + R keyboard shortcut, type thewinvercommand, and click the OK button. -
Check if the “About Windows” dialog reads “Windows 11”.
If the dialog shows “Version 21H2” along with “OS Build 22000.xxx” or a higher build number, then that’s another way to confirm the device has Windows 11 installed.
Check if Windows 11 is installed with Settings
To confirm the device has Windows 11 installed with the Settings app, use these steps:
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Open Settings.
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Click on System.
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Click the About page on the right side.
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Check under the “Windows specifications” section and confirm the “Edition” is “Windows 11”.
If the “About” page shows the 21H2 number and the build number is equal to or higher than “22000.194,” then you are running Windows 11. It is worth noting that the edition will also tell you whether the installation is using “Windows 11 Pro” or “Windows 11 Home.”