Unraveling the Mystery: How to Check MSBuild Version in Visual Studio 2022

As a developer, staying on top of the technology you are using matters! Knowing which MSBuild version you are using is important not just for troubleshooting issues, but also for ensuring that your code runs smoothly. In this thought-provoking article, we will show you the different ways you can check the MSBuild version in Visual Studio 2022.

Method 1: Using Visual Studio Command Prompt

The first method to check MSBuild version is by utilizing the Visual Studio Command Prompt. Follow these steps:

1. Open Visual Studio 2022
2. Click on the Tools menu and select Command Prompt
3. Select Developer Command Prompt for Visual Studio 2022
4. Type MSBuild /version and press Enter. The version number will be displayed on the screen.

Method 2: Using the Registry Editor

Alternatively, you can check MSBuild version using the Registry Editor. However, be cautious when making changes to the Registry Editor as it can cause system instability. Follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Registry Editor
2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\MSBuild\ToolsVersions
3. You will see a list of MSBuild versions installed on your system
4. Check the version number associated with the MSBuild you want to use or verify if a specific MSBuild version is installed on your system.

Method 3: Using the MSBuild.exe File

If you have installed MSBuild manually, you can make use of the MSBuild.exe file to check for the version. Follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Command Prompt
2. Type the path to the MSBuild.exe file followed by /version and press Enter.

For example, if MSBuild is installed in the C:\Program Files (x86)\MSBuild\14.0\Bin directory, you would type the following command: C:\Program Files (x86)\MSBuild\14.0\Bin\MSBuild.exe /version

Conclusion

Knowing how to check MSBuild version in Visual Studio 2022 is crucial, and the methods we have discussed in this article should help you quickly and easily determine the version number installed on your system. Remember to be meticulous when making changes to the Registry Editor, and follow the steps carefully to avoid any system instability mishaps.