What is a Version?
Software versioning is a way of numbering different releases of a particular software program as it is developed and released, all of which have the same general function, but each latest version comes with some improvement, upgraded or customized. Generally, it is a process to categorize the unique states of computer software for both internal use and release designation. Usually, the version identifier is a number, a word, or both. For instance, the initial release of a program is commonly denoted by version 1.0. The term version mainly applies to Web services, software, and operating systems.
With the help of versions, programmer can know when changes have been made in the software program as well as can track changes enforced in the software. Potential clients will also recognize the upgraded versions and become acquainted with the new releases. The format of assigning version numbers is not standardized; therefore, each computer company use their own format to assign version numbers on their computers. However, version numbers are assigned in order to new developments in the software and in increasing order. Some software may have different version numbers from the product as they possess internal version numbers.
Perhaps sequence-based identifiers are used by the most popular versioning scheme, where each release is offered with a unique identifier having one or more than one sequence letter or number. They reveal changes made between releases, where changes are made based on the level of significance. The most significant level is described by the first sequence changes, and then changes show less significance. A simple bug fix, for example, would be version v1.01, whereas v1.2 denotes a more significant release.
Furthermore, a zero in the first sequence can represent alpha status, one for beta status, two for release candidate, and three for public release in this method. Sometimes, the software build is represented by a fourth unpublished number. In particular software packages, negative version numbers may also be used.
Types of version numbers
The Linux kernel developers, for example, utilize odd minor version numbers for development versions that are accessible for community testing but may not be reliable enough for production. Often, minor version numbers are used by developers for stable releases. With Apple computers and the debut of OS X, which stands for ten, all version numbers begin with ten. And then, increments by 1 with a major version number. Therefore, the OS X’ major versions are represented by 10.1, 10.2, etc.
When versions are recognised in numeric form, the numbers are assigned in ascending order. They usually have the format x.y.z, with “x” denoting the major version, “y” denoting the minor version, and “z” denoting the revision number. For example, in version 1.3.22, version 1 would be a major version, version 3 minor, and 22 would be the revision.
- When a substantial code change happens, such as a fundamental framework update, a major version number is incremented. The change may be incompatible with previous versions.
- When a new feature or a major bug fix is implemented, the minor version number is changed.
- When minor bug fixes are implemented, a revision number is incremented.
Why are there different versions of software?
The version number is increased in order to describe the installed software as well as those improvements when security holes are patched, bugs are fixed, and new features are introduced. Especially, version numbering is crucial in corporate settings, where services and products may depend on characteristics specific to a particular version of the software.
Version Numbers vs Version Names
A content-based version name or a content-based version number are both sometimes referred to as “version.” Version designations include “7” for Windows 7, “8” for Windows 8, and “10” for Windows 10. Windows 7 version 6.1 was released first, followed by Windows 10 version 6.4. The Windows Version Numbers list also contains further information about Microsoft Windows releases.
Importance of Version Numbers
Version numbers are important in order to indicate what level a particular “thing” is at; it plays a crucial role commonly in software and other areas of the operating system. Version numbers are also important in terms of removing confusion about software being updated or not. In all versions, developers try to include new features to the software program, and then they give them version names by increase form. For example, version 1, version 1.1, or version 2, etc.
How to Get the Latest Software Versions
Downloading the fresh copy of your software to install over your existing one from the developer’s website is a typical way to update the latest version number software. Some programs allow you to update them automatically as they offer an update function within their software.
Another approach to acquire the most recent version number software is to make sure your third-party software is up to date and has a software updater tool. Also, this is an easier way to examine the current version number of your installed software programs on the system. Furthermore, there are other updater utilities available. Like Windows Update to keep Windows current and driver updaters to update device drivers.