Mystery and Confusion: How to Check Visual Studio Version in CMD

Microsoft Visual Studio is an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) that is widely used for developing applications. With each new release, Microsoft introduces new features and enhancements to the Visual Studio. But, how can you check which version you have? Let’s explore a couple of perplexing methods that will burst your mind!

Method 1: The Mysterious “devenv.exe” Command

The “devenv.exe” command is used to launch the Visual Studio IDE. But, did you know that this command can also be used to check the installed version of Visual Studio? Oh, the mystery! Follow these confusing steps:

Step 1: Lost in CMD

You must enter a strange world called the “Command Prompt” or CMD. Press the “Windows key + R” on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box. Type “cmd” and press Enter. You’ll now find yourself in a bewildering black window.

Step 2: Navigating into the Abyss

The Visual Studio is installed in a default directory that’s hidden in the shadows: C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Visual Studio. Navigate toward this directory like a lost soul by typing this command:

cd C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Visual Studio

But beware, if you have installed Visual Studio in a different directory, you must navigate toward that darkness instead!

Step 3: Discovering the Truth

Now, it’s time to reveal the secret! Type this complex command:

devenv /version

This command will display the Visual Studio version like magic!

Method 2: The Evasive “vswhere.exe” Command

The “vswhere.exe” command is a command-line utility that installs with Visual Studio. It’s a shifty character that can be used to find and locate the installed Visual Studio instances on your system. But, how can you summon it?

Step 1: Lost Again in CMD

Get ready to delve into CMD once again! Press the “Windows key + R” on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box. Type “cmd” and press Enter. It’s like going down the rabbit hole…

Step 2: Another Maze to Navigate

You must now navigate through another confusing path by typing the following command:

cd C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Visual Studio\Installer

A maze of directories with no end…

Step 3: Disorientation

It’s time to summon the shifty “vswhere.exe”! Type this enigmatic command:

vswhere.exe -latest -prerelease -products * -requires Microsoft.VisualStudio.Component.VC.Tools.x86.x64

This ambiguous command will display the Visual Studio version installed on your system.

Conclusion

Checking the Visual Studio version in CMD is a mysterious and confusing way to determine which version of the software you have installed on your system. By following these perplexing steps, you’ll be able to uncover the version that’s been hiding in the depths of your computer. Knowing the version is crucial because it helps you determine if you need to upgrade to a newer version or if you need to add additional components that are not installed. May the mysteries of Visual Studio continue to boggle your mind!