Which version of Windows do I have?
Before you download a screensaver, it is important to know which version of the Windows operating system you are using. After all, the screensaver you want to use may not be compatible with your version of Windows. It may also be helpful to know how old or new your version is, relative to the other versions on the market.
Finding your Windows version
A simple trick is available within Windows to quickly and reliably show you the exact version installed on your computer.
- Click on the Start Menu button at the bottom-left of your screen.
- Enter "winver" (without quotation marks) where it says "Search programs and files" and press "Enter".
- On Windows XP and older, you will have to click "Run" first, then enter "winver" and click "OK".
- A window will now pop up, giving you information on the version of Windows you are using.
Windows versions and release dates
If you run into a screensaver that requires, for example, "Windows XP or newer", it may be helpful to know whether your version of Windows is, in fact, newer. Below is a list of Windows versions and their release dates.
- Windows 8 (exp. 2012)
- Windows 7 (2009)
- Windows Vista (2007)
- Windows XP (2001)
- Windows 98 (1998)
- Windows 95 (1995)