Determine OS Version from hard drive files - not booting


  1. fred3
    Posts : 42
    Windows 7, 8.1, 10
       New #1

    Determine OS Version from hard drive files - not booting


    Often, when I'm repairing a computer, I need to know what OS was running on one that won't boot.
    However, I can boot using a live CD and examine the files. Maybe a Linux live CD.

    So, now that I can see the files, where does one look in order to know what the Windows OS version is/was?
    I figure one can determine 32 vs. 64 bit by looking for a Program Files (x86) folder as its presence at least suggests 64-bit.
    Windows 10? Windows 10 Pro? winver? etc.
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  3. Superfly
    Posts : 3,453
       New #2

    I think running WinPESE instead of Linux would be a better alternative. You can then right-click ntoskernel in system32 of the broken install to get the build info from properties or load the software hive to get other info.
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  4. topgundcp
    Posts : 2,799
    Linux Mint 20.1 Win10Prox64
       New #3

    @Superfly
    Your ShowKeyPlus would be good if you can add more info such as build # and system type (32/64)
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  6. Superfly
    Posts : 3,453
       New #4

    topgundcp said:
    @Superfly
    Your ShowKeyPlus would be good if you can add more info such as build # and system type (32/64)
    Hmmm... yup. I can add it - extend product description
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