Checking your Thunderbolt version in Windows 10 is a straightforward process. You’ll need to access your Device Manager and check the properties of your Thunderbolt controller. This will let you know what version of Thunderbolt your system is running. By following a few simple steps, you can easily find this crucial piece of information.
How to Check Thunderbolt Version on Windows 10
In this section, we will walk through the exact steps to find out which Thunderbolt version your Windows 10 PC is running. This involves accessing the Device Manager and examining the Thunderbolt controller properties.
Step 1: Open Device Manager
Open the Device Manager by right-clicking on the Windows Start button and selecting "Device Manager."
Device Manager is a control panel applet in Windows 10 that allows you to view and control the hardware attached to your computer. It’s the go-to place for managing your hardware and ensuring everything is working properly.
Step 2: Locate the Thunderbolt Controller
In Device Manager, scroll down and expand the "System Devices" category. Look for an entry that mentions "Thunderbolt" in its name.
The Thunderbolt controller is the hardware component responsible for managing your Thunderbolt ports. Finding it in the System Devices category helps you pinpoint the exact hardware you need to examine.
Step 3: Open Controller Properties
Right-click on the Thunderbolt controller entry and select "Properties."
Opening the properties window will give you access to detailed information about the Thunderbolt controller. This is where you will find the version number you are looking for.
Step 4: Check the Driver Details
In the Properties window, go to the "Driver" tab and look for the driver version number.
The driver version often correlates closely with the Thunderbolt version. For example, Thunderbolt 3 typically starts with driver versions 16.x or 17.x. This number can give you a quick indication of which version you’re using.
Step 5: Verify with Manufacturer’s Documentation
For absolute certainty, you can cross-reference the driver version with the manufacturer’s documentation or website to confirm your Thunderbolt version.
Manufacturers often provide a detailed list of driver versions and their corresponding Thunderbolt versions. This step can help clear up any confusion and give you a definitive answer.
After completing these steps, you should know exactly which Thunderbolt version your Windows 10 machine is running. This information can be crucial for troubleshooting, upgrading hardware, or ensuring compatibility with other devices.
Tips for Checking Thunderbolt Version on Windows 10
- Keep Drivers Updated: Regularly updating your drivers can ensure you have the latest version and improve performance.
- Visit Manufacturer’s Website: Often, the manufacturer’s website will have more detailed instructions and driver versions listed.
- Use Thunderbolt Software: Some manufacturers provide specific Thunderbolt software that can give you direct information about your Thunderbolt version.
- Check BIOS/UEFI: Sometimes, Thunderbolt version information is available in your system’s BIOS or UEFI settings.
- Consult Support: If you’re having trouble, reach out to the manufacturer’s support team for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Thunderbolt used for?
Thunderbolt is used for high-speed data transfer, video output, and charging devices.
How do I know if my laptop has Thunderbolt?
Check the ports on your laptop. Thunderbolt ports usually have a lightning bolt icon next to them.
Can I upgrade my Thunderbolt version?
Typically, upgrading a Thunderbolt version requires new hardware. Software updates alone cannot change the Thunderbolt version.
Is Thunderbolt the same as USB-C?
Thunderbolt and USB-C use the same connector, but Thunderbolt offers higher data transfer speeds and additional features.
Why is it important to know my Thunderbolt version?
Knowing your Thunderbolt version helps ensure compatibility with peripherals and can assist in troubleshooting issues.
Summary of Steps
- Open Device Manager.
- Locate the Thunderbolt controller.
- Open controller properties.
- Check the driver details.
- Verify with manufacturer’s documentation.
Conclusion
Knowing how to check your Thunderbolt version on Windows 10 can save you a lot of trouble, especially when dealing with compatibility issues or planning upgrades. It’s a simple process: just access the Device Manager, find the Thunderbolt controller, and check its properties. Keeping drivers updated and consulting the manufacturer’s documentation can also help confirm the version you’re using.
Staying informed about your hardware setup is always a good practice. Whether you’re a tech newbie or an experienced user, understanding your Thunderbolt version can help you make better decisions for your system. So, if you haven’t checked it yet, now’s a good time to do so!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.