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December 5th, 2025 20:30
Is this a Windows 10 or Windows 11 machine...?
I have a used DELL Precision 5820 Tower, bought at auction, formerly some kind of corporate server. It originally came with the Windows 10 Pro for Workstations (x64) OS, but was later upgraded to Windows 11 by the seller (before I bought it). No major problems occurred in the 2-3 years I had it, and Microsoft also seemed to have kept the machine updated automatically all the time, as did DELL.
However, both Dell's support website and several other tools identify this machine as Windows 10 - not Windows 11! Even the system itself lists the OS as "Windows 10 Pro for Workstations x64, version 22631" in some cases (though not in SYSINFO). Sure, the two are basically the same operating system, but even though Windows 10 has reached its "end-of-service" time, Windows 11 did not...
So, if MS has stopped updating the W10 files that even the UPGRADED operating system depends on – could this W11 run into problems? I must also point out that I am not aware of the upgrade method used, but I have no reason to suspect any foul play – after all, that type of upgrade was available for free at the time, and the new operating system is also registered with MS.
I'm not too worried, but a good explanation would be appreciated.
Erik
Stockholm, Sweden
R.S.T
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December 5th, 2025 22:44
Sometimes websites and tools can identify windows 11 as windows 10 but if you see the windows 11 UI your pc definitely running windows 11. but if you want to be extra sure if it is win 11 or win 10 go to your settings app>system>about and you will be able to see what os it is running.
MiniWise
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December 6th, 2025 10:24
@R.S.T I know what's running, the question is whether Microsoft / Windows Update knows... When DELL recommends updates (after correctly have identified the Service Tag of this machine!), it defaults to files aimed for Windows 10 - not Windows 11. I need to change that manually before every update. With Windows Update I don't have that option, it's just "take it or leave it". Or updates are being installed "no questions asked". However, if WU sees it as a W10 machine, some essential files may no longer (?) be updated...
R.S.T
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December 7th, 2025 15:17
@MiniWise I recommend to update drivers and BIOS first. To update them, visit the Dell support site for the Precision 5820 Tower and install the latest BIOS, and drivers.