Browser: How to Check Version in Edge
In today’s fast-paced digital world, browsers are essential tools for browsing the web, managing tasks, and ensuring security. Among the various browsers available, Microsoft Edge stands out for its speed, security features, and integration with Windows. However, to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with websites, it’s essential to know how to check the version of your browser. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of checking your browser version in Microsoft Edge, troubleshooting common issues, and understanding why this information matters.
Why Knowing Your Browser Version Matters
Every browser, including Microsoft Edge, undergoes regular updates that enhance performance, improve security, and fix bugs. Knowing your browser version is crucial for several reasons:
- Security Updates: Browsers are constantly updated to fix vulnerabilities. Keeping track of your version helps ensure you’re using the latest security features.
- Compatibility: Certain websites or web applications may only work with specific browser versions. Being aware of your version can help avoid compatibility issues.
- Performance: Each browser update brings improvements in speed and user experience. Knowing your version ensures that you can enjoy the latest optimizations.
Step-by-Step Guide to Checking the Version of Your Microsoft Edge Browser
Now that you understand why it’s important to know your browser version, let’s dive into how you can easily check the version in Microsoft Edge. Follow the steps below:
Step 1: Open Microsoft Edge
First, launch the Microsoft Edge browser on your computer. If it’s not already open, you can click on the Edge icon from your desktop or taskbar to open it.
Step 2: Access the Edge Menu
Once the browser is open, navigate to the top-right corner of the window. You’ll see a set of three dots (also known as the More button). Click on these dots to open the menu.
Step 3: Go to Settings
In the menu, scroll down and select the Settings option. This will open the Settings page of your Microsoft Edge browser.
Step 4: Open About Microsoft Edge
Within the Settings menu, scroll down the left-hand panel and select About Microsoft Edge under the “Help and Feedback” section. Alternatively, you can directly type edge://settings/help in the address bar to access this page.
Step 5: View the Version Number
On the About Microsoft Edge page, you’ll see detailed information about your current browser version. This includes the exact version number, for example, “Version 116.0.1938.62 (Official build) (64-bit).” Microsoft Edge will also check for updates automatically and install any available updates when you visit this page.
Understanding Browser Version Information
The version number of your browser is typically divided into several segments, such as:
- Major version: Indicates the primary release (e.g., 116 in the example above).
- Minor version: Refers to smaller updates or bug fixes (e.g., 0 in the example above).
- Patch version: Identifies security patches or minor fixes (e.g., 1938 in the example above).
- Build number: This is the final number that identifies a specific build of the browser (e.g., 62 in the example above).
Each segment of the version number provides different insights into the stability, security, and performance of your browser. Regular updates are vital for maintaining a secure browsing experience.
What to Do if Your Browser is Outdated
If you discover that your Microsoft Edge browser is outdated, you should take immediate action to update it. An outdated browser may not only lack the latest features but can also expose you to security vulnerabilities. Here’s how you can update your browser:
Step 1: Open the Microsoft Edge Menu
Click on the three dots at the top-right corner of the browser to open the Edge menu.
Step 2: Navigate to Settings
Click Settings in the dropdown menu.
Step 3: Go to the About Page
Once in the Settings menu, scroll to the About Microsoft Edge section or use the direct link: edge://settings/help.
Step 4: Update Your Browser
If an update is available, Microsoft Edge will automatically begin downloading and installing it. Make sure to restart the browser once the update is complete to ensure the latest changes are applied.
Troubleshooting: Common Issues When Checking Browser Version in Edge
While checking your browser version in Microsoft Edge is usually a straightforward process, you may encounter some issues. Here are a few common problems and solutions:
- Issue: Edge menu is unresponsive.
Try restarting Microsoft Edge or your computer. If the problem persists, consider reinstalling Edge. - Issue: The About Microsoft Edge page doesn’t load.
Ensure that you’re connected to the internet and that Edge is up to date. Try using Microsoft Edge support for further assistance. - Issue: No updates available.
If no updates are available but you suspect your browser is outdated, visit the official Microsoft Edge website to manually download and install the latest version.
How to Ensure Your Browser Stays Up-to-Date
Keeping your browser up-to-date is essential for ensuring that you’re always benefiting from the latest features and security patches. Here’s how to set up automatic updates in Microsoft Edge:
- Enable Automatic Updates: By default, Microsoft Edge automatically installs updates. Make sure that your system is set to allow automatic updates by checking your Windows Update settings.
- Check for Updates Regularly: If you prefer manual updates, you can check for updates periodically by visiting the About Microsoft Edge page.
- Use Windows Update: Ensure your operating system is updated through Windows Update, as this often includes browser updates alongside system patches.
Conclusion
Knowing how to check your browser version in Microsoft Edge is an essential skill for maintaining a secure and optimized browsing experience. Regular updates help keep your browser running smoothly, prevent security breaches, and ensure compatibility with modern web technologies. Whether you are troubleshooting issues or simply keeping track of your browser’s performance, understanding your browser version is crucial. Remember, updating your browser is a simple process that can be done directly through the settings menu, and staying on top of updates can improve your overall browsing experience.
For more tips and tricks on using Microsoft Edge and other browsers, feel free to explore additional resources on Microsoft Edge’s official website.
This article is in the category Guides & Tutorials and created by BrowserMaster Team