Version refers to a specific release of a tech product such as software or hardware. Versions have unique identifiers, such as numbers, dates or codes. The general practice is that larger numbers and more recent dates are used to designate newer versions, ie Chrome 56 is more recent than Chrome 44. Numbers don’t have to be sequential, and for updates and small changes, the overall version name often stays the same, with only an internal (and to the casual user difficult to find) build number revealing the exact version.
Technipages Explains Version
A program or piece of software in its first public release may be called Alpha 1.0. Following feature updates could then be given version numbers and names like Alpha 1.4, or for major updates and re-releases, Alpha 2.0. Small bug fixes and minor updates that don’t affect the functionality will often be given additional numbers like Alpha 1.4.2.
The main purpose of these version numbers is to be able to identify what state a piece of software is in when it’s used. This is necessary info when it comes to troubleshooting and fixing errors and bugs – a problem may exist in version 64.2.1 that doesn’t exist in version 64.3.1.
There is no regulation on these numbers and creators are free to use them how they wish. This means that sequential numbers are often skipped – after Windows 8 came Windows 10 or example. Names don’t have to reflect a version at all and often don’t – in that case, a build number is usually included somewhere, and in case of errors, the user will be asked to provide that instead.
Often found in settings or ‘about’ info segments, build numbers serve the same purpose as version numbers, but give more detailed info. They also tend to be longer.
Common Uses of Version
- Version Nr. 2892.1231.1450 is faulty.
- Please provide a version or build number along with your change request.
- Internal version numbers are used to identify a unique software release.
Common Misuses of Version
- Versions describe steps of a software development process.
- Versions of software refer to simultaneous alternative releases of a program, such as ‘Pokemon Red’ and ‘Pokemon Blue’.
