Operating system version number

A version number is a unique number given to each release of an operating system, programme, hardware model, firmware, or driver. Higher numbers are applied to newer or more up-to-date hardware or software. Version numbers can identify the specific release of the operating system installed on your computer or mobile phone as well as how long it has been since your software was updated. The version number can help you determine when your operating system requires an update, but it can also be used maliciously to reveal if your operating system is insecure. Older versions of an operating system often have known vulnerabilities that can put you at risk.