Do you know what Intel processor generation is running on your computer? Is it the latest and most advanced model? Or is it an outdated version needing an upgrade? Knowing which Intel processor generation your computer is vital when upgrading, troubleshooting, and maximizing performance.
Below are the steps to easily check which Intel processor generation you have on Windows.
1. How to Check Your Intel’s Processor Generation Using System Settings
On Windows, you can quickly check your Intel processor generation through System Settings. To do this, go to the Windows Search bar and type “Settings”. Then selectSettingsapp from the search results. You can also useWin + Ito open it directly.
In the Settings window, click on theSystemoption to open it. Next, on the right-side panel, scroll down and clickAboutto view your system information.
Here you will find your processor name and Intel processor generation number. you may also check additional specifications like RAM and OS version here.
2. How to Check Your Intel’s Processor Generation Using Device Manager
Another way to check your Intel processor generation is through Device Manager. To do this, right-click onStartand selectDevice Managerfrom the options list. You will find a list of different devices and hardware in the device manager window. Expand theProcessorssection to view your Intel processor name and generation.
Here you may also check other details like Hardware IDs, Manufacturers, and Driver Providers. To view them, right-click on your processor and selectProperties. Then switch to theDetails taband click thePropertydrop-down menu.
3. How to Check Your Intel’s Processor Generation Using the System Information Tool
You can use the System Information tool for a thorough system report. This tool provides more than just Intel processor generation identification. It offers detailed insights into installed drivers, system models, BIOS versions, Windows versions, memory, and more.
To open this tool, typeSystem Informationin the Windows search bar. Then select it from the search results. you’re able to also useWin + Rto open the Run command, typemsinfo32, and hitEnter.
Your processor name is in theSystem Summarysection on the right-side panel.
4. How to Check Your Intel’s Processor Generation Using File Explorer
If you’re using Windows File Explorer, you don’t even need to leave it. You can check your Intel processor generation right from the File Explorer window.
To do this, click onThis PCfrom the left side panel, then selectProperties.
You’ll find the Intel processor generation in theDevice specificationssection.
This screen also shows Windows Edition, OS build, System type, and other details.
5. How to Check Your Intel’s Processor Generation Using Task Manager
Task Manager is a native Windows tool that shows what programs and services are running on your computer. To open it, right-click on an empty space on your taskbar and selectTask Managerfrom the pop-up menu. Alternatively, press theCtrl + Shift + Esckeys to open it directly.
You will see multiple tabs in the Task Manager window like Processes, Performance, App history, and more. Click on thePerformancetab and expand theCPUsection.
Here you will find your processor name and Intel processor generation. For example, if you see12th Gen Intel(R) Core(TM) i5-12500H, you have a 12th generation Intel Core i5 processor.
6. How to Check Intel Processor Generation Using DirectX Diagnostic Tool
The DirectX Diagnostic Tool is another Windows utility that provides detailed information about your system hardware and configuration. This tool is designed to troubleshoot DirectX sound and video issues, but you can also check your Intel processor generation.
To open this tool, right-click onStartand selectRun. Typedxdiagin the input field and clickOKor pressEnter. This commandopens the DirectX Diagnostic Tool.
In the DirectX Diagnostic Tool window, click on theSystemtab. Look for the Processor line in the System Information section, you will find the name and generation of your processor.
The snapshot above shows that my system has a 12th-generation Intel Core i5-12500H processor.
This information is important when troubleshooting and upgrading computer components. you’re able to also compare performance differences between different Intel processor generations.
7. How to Check Your Intel’s Processor Generation Using Command Prompt
If you’re tech-savvy, you can also use Command Prompt to check your Intel processor generation. To do this, typeCMDin the Windows search bar and select the Command Prompt app from the search results. If Command Prompt is new to you, here’s aquick tutorial on command line use.
In the Command Prompt window, typewmic cpu get name, and hitEnter. You will see your processor name along with its Intel processor generation.
8. How to Check Your Intel’s Processor Generation Using Windows PowerShell
PowerShell is similar to Command Prompt but has additional features and functionality. So if you want a more advanced system report that includes your Intel processor generation, using PowerShell is the best option.
To open PowerShell, right-click on the Start button and selectTerminalfrom the options list. If it opens the Command Prompt instead, click the down arrow and selectWindows PowerShellfrom the list. Alternatively, you can use theCtrl + Shift + 1keys to open a PowerShell window directly.
In the PowerShell window, type the following command, and hitEnter. You will get your processor name and Intel processor generation.
To find the total number of cores and threads in your processor, type the following command in the PowerShell window and hitEnter. You’ll see the current core count for your CPU.
Similarly, type the following commands and hit Enter to get the total thread count.
These are some of the ways to check your Intel processor generation. Now you’re able to use these tips before buying a new CPU or upgrading an old one to check Intel processor generation.
Get to Know Your Intel Processor’s Generation
Hopefully, these methods helped you verify your Intel processor generation. Now you know what version your computer runs. If it’s outdated, upgrading it can improve performance and stability. Just ensure your motherboard supports the processor.
