Finding the specific version of software or firmware on your computer is a common task, but it's important to distinguish between the operating system version (like Windows ME) and hardware-related firmware versions (like ME FW). This guide will show you how to find both.
Understanding the Difference: Windows ME vs. ME FW
It's crucial to understand that "Windows ME" refers to the operating system released by Microsoft. "ME FW" (Management Engine Firmware) typically refers to firmware associated with your computer's hardware, often related to Intel's Management Engine.
While the question asks about "Windows ME version," the provided reference describes how to find "ME FW Version." We will cover how to find both to address potential ambiguities.
Finding Your Windows ME Operating System Version
Windows ME (Millennium Edition) was released in 2000. Unlike modern Windows versions that have frequent feature updates, Windows ME primarily had service packs for updates. You can usually find the operating system information, including its version or build number, through the system properties.
Here are common ways to find your Windows ME operating system details:
-
Via System Properties:
- Click the Start button.
- Right-click on My Computer.
- Select Properties.
- Look for information under the "General" tab. This typically shows the operating system name (Windows Millennium Edition) and potentially a version or build number, often indicating whether a specific service pack is installed.
-
Using the
winverCommand:- Click the Start button.
- Click Run....
- Type
winverin the Open box. - Click OK or press Enter.
- A window will pop up displaying the version information for Windows Millennium Edition, including the build number.
These methods will confirm that you are running Windows ME and show its specific build details.
Finding Your ME FW Version (Management Engine Firmware)
The provided reference describes finding the ME FW Version, which is part of your computer's BIOS settings and unrelated to the Windows ME operating system itself. This is a firmware version, often associated with motherboard features.
To find your ME FW Version based on the reference:
- Restart or Turn On Your Computer: Ensure your computer is starting up.
- Access the BIOS Settings: As the computer boots, press the F2 or Del key to enter the BIOS setting page. The exact key can vary depending on your motherboard manufacturer (common keys include F1, F10, F12, or Esc). Watch the screen during startup for prompts like "Press DEL to Enter Setup" or "Press F2 for BIOS."
- Navigate the BIOS Menu: Once in the BIOS utility, navigate through the menus. BIOS interfaces vary greatly between manufacturers.
- Locate ME FW Version: The reference states you should confirm the ME FW Version in the Main menu under Advanced Mode. Look for an "Advanced" mode or section, and then within that, search for a "Main" or "System Information" sub-menu where firmware or version details are listed. Find the specific entry for "ME FW Version."
- Note: The process and menu names can differ significantly depending on your motherboard brand and model (e.g., ASUS, Gigabyte, MSI, Dell, HP). Consult your computer or motherboard manual if you have trouble finding the option.
Finding the ME FW Version requires accessing system-level settings before the operating system loads, as described by the reference.
Summary Table: OS vs. Firmware
| Feature | What it is | How to Find (Based on methods above) |
|---|---|---|
| Windows ME | The operating system running on your computer | Through System Properties or the winver command within Windows ME. |
| ME FW Version | Hardware firmware (e.g., Intel Management Engine) | By accessing BIOS settings during boot-up (using F2 or Del, etc.). |
By following these steps, you can determine either your Windows ME operating system details or your system's ME Firmware version, clarifying which specific "version" you need to find.
