Windows · Guide
How to Check Your System Information on Windows
Short answer
Press Windows key + R, type msinfo32, and press Enter to see a full summary of your CPU, memory, and OS build in Windows's built-in System Information tool. For deeper hardware detail, use HWiNFO or Speccy.
Requirements
- Windows 11 or Windows 10
- System Information (built in)
- Optional: Speccy, CPU-Z, or HWiNFO for more detailed hardware readouts
Steps
1. Open System Information
Press Windows key + R, type msinfo32, and press Enter. This shows OS version, CPU, installed memory, and BIOS details.
2. Check basic specs quickly
Alternatively, go to Settings > System > About for a shorter summary including Windows edition, version, and installed RAM.
3. Check CPU and GPU details
Open Task Manager with Ctrl + Shift + Esc, then click the Performance tab to see live CPU, memory, disk, and GPU usage and model names.
4. Install HWiNFO for full sensor data
Download HWiNFO from hwinfo.com for temperatures, clock speeds, and detailed specs for every component, updated in real time.
5. Install Speccy for a readable summary
Speccy from Piriform presents the same kind of hardware detail in a simpler layout, useful for quickly checking RAM slots or storage health.
6. Check storage drive health
Install CrystalDiskInfo to view your SSD or hard drive's health status, temperature, and power-on hours.
Alternative methods
1. Use CPU-Z for CPU and motherboard detail
CPU-Z focuses specifically on processor model, cache sizes, and motherboard chipset, useful when checking upgrade compatibility.
2. Use the command line
Run systeminfo in Command Prompt for a text summary of OS, BIOS, and network configuration you can copy or redirect to a file.
Troubleshooting
System Information shows conflicting RAM amounts
The 'Installed Physical Memory' figure can differ slightly from what's usable if some memory is reserved by the motherboard for onboard graphics.
msinfo32 takes a long time to load
It gathers extensive hardware and driver data on first launch; subsequent components load faster after the initial scan finishes.
HWiNFO shows unusually high temperatures
Confirm you are reading the correct sensor, since motherboards report multiple temperature zones; compare against your CPU manufacturer's rated maximum.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find my Windows version and build number?
Go to Settings > System > About, or run winver from the Run dialog to see the exact version and build number.
Is HWiNFO safe to use?
Yes, HWiNFO is a long-established, free hardware monitoring tool widely used and trusted in the PC enthusiast community.
How do I check if my PC supports Windows 11?
Use Settings > Windows Update > PC Health Check, or manually verify TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot status via msinfo32's BIOS Mode and Device Guard fields.
What's the difference between Speccy and HWiNFO?
Speccy offers an easier-to-read overview for casual checks, while HWiNFO exposes far more sensor detail favored for monitoring and troubleshooting.