We strongly recommend the . While installing an older Photoshop version offers a temporary workaround, you will eventually have to update your OS anyway. Addressing the root cause now will save you significant time and frustration in the long run.

: Modern versions of Photoshop (e.g., CC 2021+) now typically require much newer builds, such as Windows 10 version 1809 or higher . How to Check and Update Your System

Running an obsolete build of Windows 10 (such as versions 1507 or 1511).

After the upgrade, verify your version with winver . You should now be on version 21H2 or 22H2. Photoshop will install without complaint.

Before attempting to install or update Photoshop, it is essential to verify which version of Windows you are currently running. Press the on your keyboard. Type winver in the box and hit Enter . A dialog box will appear showing the Windows version.

The error message can be especially confusing for users running or LTSB (Long-Term Servicing Branch) editions, such as Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC, Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2015/2016, Windows Server, and Education editions with policies disabling updates . These editions receive security updates for many years, but they are not officially supported by Adobe Creative Cloud applications [11†L28-L32][12†L22-L25].

If you encounter an error stating that Photoshop requires the Anniversary Update, you can verify and update your OS through these official channels:

: Some users find that even if their system is ostensibly up to date (e.g., version 20H2), they still receive the error, often due to corrupted installation logs or the need for the Microsoft Update Assistant Hardware Limitations

: Users on older versions frequently encounter blocking errors stating, "Adobe Photoshop requires Windows 10 Anniversary Update (version 1607) or later. Upgrade for free to a newer version to run Photoshop" .

You need to know your exact Windows build before attempting a fix.Follow these quick steps to find it: Press the on your keyboard. Type winver into the box. Press Enter . A window will pop up showing your version and OS build. If your version number is lower than 1607, you must update. How to Fix the Error

Older Photoshop versions lack newer features (Neural Filters, Object Selection Tool, Cloud Documents). However, they remain stable and fully functional for most design tasks.