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The traditional user agent

A user-agent string describes the browser and platform. It may contain several browser names for compatibility, and can be changed or simplified. Our detector recognises common patterns and leaves unknown results labelled as such.

Client Hints can add detail

Some browsers provide Client Hints, which can give clearer browser versions and platform information. These are not available in every browser or context, and requests can be restricted.

Windows 10 and Windows 11

They can report the same traditional string. Where suitable Client Hints are available, we can distinguish Windows 10 from Windows 11 or later. Otherwise, we show “Windows 10 or 11”. Microsoft explains this behaviour.

Privacy can simplify versions

Some browsers freeze operating-system versions or reduce the detail they share. iPads can also present a desktop-style user agent. A reported value may differ from the actual system version.

Use the device itself for certainty

The browser’s About screen and the operating system’s Settings are better sources for exact versions. Include that information in a support request if it matters to the problem.

To inspect the exact string your browser sends, open the user-agent checker. For the browser name and version alongside other support details, use the browser and device checker.