What Operating System Do I Have: How to Find Out

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Windows, Mac, or ChromeOS, it’s not always clear which operating system version is active.

Operating systems undergo frequent updates, some of which are subtle and others so radical that they require rebranding. It’s easy to lose track of your computer’s operating system if you don’t keep up with the latest tech news. Well, let’s help you with that.

The instructions in this post will help you quickly determine the installed operating system on any computer.

How to Find Out Which Version of Windows You Have

The first step in learning more about the current version of your operating system is determining what your operating system is in the first place.

Let us begin with Windows.

If your keyboard has a Windows key on the lower left and a “Enter” key instead of a “Return” key, you’re probably using Microsoft’s venerable Windows operating system. Another way to tell is to look at the bottom of the screen; if there’s a start button in the lower left corner, it’s probably Windows, though in Windows 11, it’ll now be in the bottom center.

On its support website, Microsoft provides very simple instructions for determining which version of Windows you have. The instructions below apply to both Windows 11 and Windows 10. If you’re not sure which one you have, a good starting point is that almost any Windows machine released after 2015 runs Windows 10 at a minimum.

Press the start button.
Select “Settings” from the menu.
Select “System”
Click “About” to learn more.
Click “Device specifications” and then “System type” to proceed.
Look for “Windows specifications” to see what version of Windows you have.

How to Find Out Which Version of Macos You Have

We’re going to guess and assume you know whether or not you’re running MacOS, Apple’s desktop and laptop operating system. It is the only operating system that runs on Apple devices, and MacOS is only available on Apple devices. You already know the deal if you see the famous Apple logo anywhere on your laptop.

Apple’s instructions for determining which version of MacOS you’re running are even easier to follow than those on Windows. Simply click the Apple button in the upper left corner of the screen, followed by “About This Mac” directly beneath it. It is, in fact, the first option. You won’t be able to miss it.

The name of the MacOS version you’re running and the version number will be displayed in large text at the top of the box that appears.

How to Find Which Version of Chromeos You Have

ChromeOS, the newest of the three major operating systems outlined in this article, was created by Google and runs on any device with the word “Chromebook” in the name. You have ChromeOS if you own a Chromebook.

According to Google’s instructions, determining which version of ChromeOS you have is fairly simple. It only takes a few simple steps:

In the bottom right corner of the screen, click on the time.
Select “Settings” from the menu.
Click the “About ChromeOS” link.

This should open a page with information about your machine’s ChromeOS version, as well as the option to check for and install any updates.

How to Check the Specifications of Your Windows PC

Windows 11 and Windows 10

Select the Settings option from the Start menu.
Select System from the Settings menu.
Go to the System page and select About. At the bottom of the System page, this will be the last option.

You’ll see a page with information about your computer. This will include the current name of your PC, the type of CPU you have, your RAM, and the ID numbers of your devices.

Windows 8

Open the Settings menu by pressing the Windows key + I on your keyboard.
Select Change PC settings from the Settings menu.
Select PC and devices, then PC info.

What Exactly Are Operating Systems?

An operating system (OS) is a type of software interface that connects the user to the hardware of a device. Users can use this software to communicate with the device and perform the desired functions. To manage computer programs and applications, operating systems rely on two components:

Kernel: The kernel is the central inner component that handles data at the hardware level. It is in charge of input-output management, memory management, and process management.
Shell: The shell is the outer layer that manages the user’s interaction with the operating system. The shell communicates with the operating system by either accepting user input or running a shell script. A shell script is a set of system commands stored in a file.

Commonly Used Operating Systems

The following are the most commonly used operating systems:

#1. Windows by Microsoft

Microsoft Windows, developed by Microsoft, is one of the world’s most popular proprietary operating systems for computers. Microsoft Windows is preinstalled on the majority of personal computers. One disadvantage of Windows is its incompatibility with mobile phones.

Apple iOS

Apple iOS is a mobile operating system that is used on Apple’s smartphones and tablets. This system provides users with access to hundreds of applications. To prevent unauthorized access to users’ private data, the operating system includes strong encryption capabilities.

Google Android

Google’s Android operating system is the most popular in the world. It is most commonly found on tablets and smartphones. It is also compatible with devices made by other manufacturers. The Google Play Store provides users with access to a plethora of mobile applications.

Apple macOS

This proprietary operating system, developed by Apple, runs on the company’s personal computers and desktops. All Apple and Macintosh computers include the most recent version of macOS, formerly known as OS X systems. Apple operating systems are popular among their users due to their ability to prevent bugs and defend against hackers.

Linux

Linus Torvalds, a Finnish programmer, created Linux, which is now developed by programmer collaborators all over the world who submit changes to the central kernel software. Programmers and corporate servers widely use Linux. It is freely available online.

What’s the Difference Between an Open-Source and Proprietary OS?

An open-source operating system, such as those based on the Linux kernel (such as the Android OS), makes its source code available to the public. Anyone can modify the source code, and the software evolves through open collaboration. On the other hand, a proprietary operating system is branded software in which the code is protected by the manufacturer, such as Microsoft or Apple, and thus cannot be modified by others. Any changes to the operating system will be made by the company that owns it. Open-source software is generally updated and fixed more quickly than proprietary software.

Why Is It Important to Know About Operating Systems?

Understanding operating systems is essential for the following reasons:

It enables you to comprehend a device’s inner workings.
It allows you to troubleshoot minor issues with the device.
It enables you to hone your coding abilities.
It allows you to choose the best operating system for you.

Which Jobs Require Direct Interaction With Operating Systems?

Operating systems are the “brains” behind a computer’s functionality, and many tech jobs involve direct interaction with them, such as software developers, web developers, software engineers, coders, and computer programmers. While many programmers today are adept at cross-platform programming, which means that the software they create can run on multiple platforms, there are still specific OS developers, such as a Linux developer, macOS developer, or an Android developer.

How Can I Tell if My Windows Is 32-Bit or 64-Bit?

Choose the Start button, then Settings > System > About. See System type on the right, under Device specifications.

Can 64-bit run 32-bit?

Running a 32-bit program on a 64-bit machine will work flawlessly because the program treats the computer as if it were a 32-bit machine.

Choosing an Operating System

In our linked reviews of the five operating systems discussed above, we considered the following criteria, which can help you decide on an OS:

A variety of hardware options
A wide range of software is available, including gaming and productivity software.
Niceties in interface design and windowing
Apps and utilities
Integration of mobile and cloud services
Updates, stability, and security

The choice is simple if you only need to run software that is compatible with one of these operating systems. You can sometimes get around this by running a virtual machine, but native apps provide a better experience.

For example, if you want to use Final Cut Pro as your video editor and Adobe Premiere Pro isn’t an option, macOS is your only option. If you want to play AAA video games, Windows is the way to go. The same is true for peripherals. You might have a VR headset or 3D printer that only supports one type of system.

What Operating System Do I Have: How to Find Out

Table of Contents Hide

How to Find Out Which Version of Windows You Have

How to Find Out Which Version of Macos You Have

How to Find Which Version of Chromeos You Have