Let’s settle this from the start: this is not rocket science, it’s not even a complicated thing to do. However, it is a question you may have to answer. If you handled computers before, the answer is a couple of clicks away. On the other hand, if you’re like my mother, you call your child/friend at 7 a.m. and ask him/her how to do it. This tutorial is, mainly, for everyone who wants to save the cost of a call and do it on their own.

NOTE: Even though the images used in this tutorial are from Windows 7, the same instructions work also on Windows Vista and Windows 8.

Where to go and how to get there - The System panel

All the specifications of the operating system you are using, are in the System panel. There are several ways to get there. The first would be to open the Control Panel.

There, go to the System and Security section.

Then, click on System.

If you are using the Classic View of the Control Panel, System is found directly in the list of available icons. Finding its icon might actually take more than all the other steps put together. Click on it and voila!

Another way to open the System panel is to right-click the Computer icon on your Desktop and click Properties. I know it’s easier, that’s why I put it last. :)

That takes you straight to the System panel, avoiding the traffic jam in Control Panel.

NOTE: as suggested by one of our readers, the fastest way to get to the System panel is to press the Windows + Pause keys on your keyboard.

The information you are looking for - Windows Edition & System type

In the first section of the System panel, you can see what edition of Windows you have installed. The options, depending on which Windows you are using (Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows 8) are: Starter, Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional, Enterprise and Ultimate.

In the System section you have information regarding the processor, RAM memory, and, finally, what you’re looking for. You can see if your system type is a 32-bit or a 64-bit. In my case, I have a 32-bit Windows 7 Ultimate edition.

An ever easier way

If you are interested to learn only the edition of Windows that you are running, simply press CTRL+ALT+Delete on your keyboard. This will take you to the lock screen where you have several options for what to do next. At the bottom, you will see the Windows edition that you are using.

NOTE: This doesn't work in Windows 8 though, only in earlier versions.

Conclusion

That was it. It’s simple, but useful. If you happen to know another way of doing it, feel free to tell us. If you are interested in other useful tutorials (and maybe a little more complex than this one), check out the list of articles recommended below.