How to Identify My Computer

Many people use computers on a regular basis without knowing the exact operating system or basic hardware specifications. For general tasks like web browsing and word processing, such information may not be necessary, but if you plan to upgrade your computer, it can be useful to identify basic information such as the operating system version, computer name, and the amount of installed random access memory (RAM).

Instructions

View Basic System Information on Windows PCs

1. Click on the "Start" button in the bottom left hand corner of the screen.

2. Right click on "My computer" (XP) or "Computer" (Vista.)

3. Select "Properties." This will produce a list of basic system information such as your operating system version, RAM, and computer name.

4. Alternatively, you can click "Start," "Control Panel" and then "System" to view system information.

View Basic Information on a Mac (OS X)

1. Click on the Apple icon in the upper left hand corner of the desktop.

2. Select "About this Mac." A window of basic information will appear listing your operating system version and installed RAM.

3. Click "More Info..." to view more detailed information about your system's devices.

Tips & Warnings

• On Windows PCs the device manager can be used to check the various hardware components you have installed. Access the device manager by clicking "Start," right click "My Computer," click "Manage," and then "Device Manager." You can also access the device manager by clicking "Start," "Run," typing "devmgmt.msc," into the text field and clicking "Ok."

• Many computers have labels on the front, back or bottom that have extra information such as the product model and number.

References

• Microsoft: View your computer information
• UW Madison: Mac OS X - Gathering System Information