- Microsoft Windows
- Windows (operating system)
- Contents
- Windows Major Release Versions
- The Evolution of Microsoft Windows Operating System
- The History of Microsoft Windows Operating System
- Windows 1.0
- Windows 2.0
- Windows 3.0
- Windows 3.1
- Windows 95
- Windows 98
- Windows Me
- Windows 2000 Professional
- Windows XP
- Windows Vista
- Windows 7
- Windows 8
- Windows 8.1
- Windows 10
Microsoft Windows
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Microsoft Windows, also called Windows and Windows OS, computer operating system (OS) developed by Microsoft Corporation to run personal computers (PCs). Featuring the first graphical user interface (GUI) for IBM-compatible PCs, the Windows OS soon dominated the PC market. Approximately 90 percent of PCs run some version of Windows.
The first version of Windows, released in 1985, was simply a GUI offered as an extension of Microsoft’s existing disk operating system, or MS-DOS. Based in part on licensed concepts that Apple Inc. had used for its Macintosh System Software, Windows for the first time allowed DOS users to visually navigate a virtual desktop, opening graphical “windows” displaying the contents of electronic folders and files with the click of a mouse button, rather than typing commands and directory paths at a text prompt.
Subsequent versions introduced greater functionality, including native Windows File Manager, Program Manager, and Print Manager programs, and a more dynamic interface. Microsoft also developed specialized Windows packages, including the networkable Windows for Workgroups and the high-powered Windows NT, aimed at businesses. The 1995 consumer release Windows 95 fully integrated Windows and DOS and offered built-in Internet support, including the World Wide Web browser Internet Explorer.
With the 2001 release of Windows XP, Microsoft united its various Windows packages under a single banner, offering multiple editions for consumers, businesses, multimedia developers, and others. Windows XP abandoned the long-used Windows 95 kernel (core software code) for a more powerful code base and offered a more practical interface and improved application and memory management. The highly successful XP standard was succeeded in late 2006 by Windows Vista, which experienced a troubled rollout and met with considerable marketplace resistance, quickly acquiring a reputation for being a large, slow, and resource-consuming system. Responding to Vista’s disappointing adoption rate, Microsoft in 2009 released Windows 7, an OS whose interface was similar to that of Vista but was met with enthusiasm for its noticeable speed improvement and its modest system requirements.
Windows 8 in 2012 offered a start screen with applications appearing as tiles on a grid and the ability to synchronize settings so users could log on to another Windows 8 machine and use their preferred settings. In 2015 Microsoft released Windows 10, which came with Cortana, a digital personal assistant like Apple’s Siri, and the Web browser Microsoft Edge, which replaced Internet Explorer. Microsoft also announced that Windows 10 would be the last version of Windows, meaning that users would receive regular updates to the OS but that no more large-scale revisions would be done.
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica This article was most recently revised and updated by Amy Tikkanen, Corrections Manager.
Windows (operating system)
Windows is a series of operating systems produced and maintained by the Microsoft Corporation. It was estimated that as of December 2007 [1] Microsoft Windows accounted for nearly 90% of operating system usage, with 3 out of 4 being Windows XP. Windows is used for desktop, and server computers, [2] and more recently also for cellular phones and tablet computers. It is intended for use with the Intel x86-64 family of processors.
Early versions of Windows (98 and earlier) were notoriously unreliable, despite (or maybe because of?) Microsoft’s near-monopoly share of the operating system market. They crashed so often that the term «blue screen of death» entered the vocabulary. See also this satire: Matrix Runs on Windows XP
Initially Windows was a text-based system (MS-DOS). Then a Graphical User Interface extension was added onto this MS-DOS core [3] It became a full GUI operating system free of the MS-DOS core beginning with the release of Windows NT.
Contents
Windows Major Release Versions
| Name | Version Number | Public Release | Notes | Editions | Minimum RAM required | Minimum drive space |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windows 1.0 | 1.0 | November 20, 1985 [4] | Sold 500,000 copies [5] | |||
| Windows 1.02 | 1.02 | May 1986 | Multilingual (international) release of 1.0 | |||
| Windows 1.03 | 1.03 | August 1986 | Further upgrades for international use, including more drivers and European keyboard support | |||
| Windows 1.04 | 1.04 | April 1987 | Further functionality additions, including support for IBM PS/2 computers | |||
| Windows 2.0 | 2.11 | March 13, 1989 |
| |||
| Windows 3.0 | NT 3.0 | May 22, 1990 |
| |||
| Windows 3.1 | 3.1 | April 1992 | First MS operating system on CD-ROM |
| 1MB | i286 15MB |
| Windows 3.2 | November 22, 1993 | Chinese version of Windows 3.1 | ||||
| Windows NT 3.5 | 3.5.807 | September 21, 1994 |
| |||
| Windows NT 3.51 | 3.51.1057 | May 30, 1995 |
|
| ||
| Windows 95 | NT 4.0.950 | August 24, 1995 | Uses the same skin as 98, 2000, and ME | 4MB [7] | 40.8-76.2MB [8] | |
| Windows NT 4.0 | NT 4.0 | July 29, 1996 |
| |||
| Windows CE Alder [9] | CE 1.0 | November 16, 1996 [9] | 2MB | |||
| Windows CE Birch [9] | CE 2.0 | November 1997 [9] | Auto PC platform introduced [10] | |||
| Windows 98 | NT 4.1.1998 | June 25, 1998 | Uses the same skin as 95, 2000, and ME | 16MB | 500MB | |
| Windows 98 Second Edition | NT 4.1.2222 | April 23, 1999 | Uses the same skin as 95, 2000, and ME | |||
| Windows CE 2.1 | ||||||
| Windows 2000 | NT 5.0.2195 | February 17, 2000 |
|
| ||
| Windows CE Cedar | CE 3.0 | April 2000 | Windows CE for Automotive | |||
| Windows ME | NT 4.90.3000 | September 14, 2000 |
| |||
| Windows XP | 5.1.2600 | October 25, 2001 |
|
| x32/x86: 64MB [12] x64: 256MB | 1.5GB |
| Windows CE Talisker [9] | CE 4.0 | January 7, 2002 | ||||
| Windows CE Jameson [9] | CE 4.1 | June 2002 [9] | Windows Automotive | |||
| Windows CE McKendric [9] | CE 4.2 | April 2003 [9] | Windows Automotive 4.2 | |||
| Windows Server 2003 | NT 5.2 | 2003 | ||||
| Windows CE Macallan [9] | CE 5.0 | August 2004 [9] | Windows Automotive 5.0 | 6MB [13] | ||
| Windows Server 2003 R2 | 2006 | |||||
| Windows CE Yamazaki [9] | CE 6.0 | September 2006 [9] |
| |||
| Windows Vista | NT 6.0.6000 | January 30, 2007 |
|
| Home Basic: 512MB, All Others: 1GB [15] | 20GB |
| Windows Server 2008 | February 27, 2008 | 512 MB | Foundation: 10GB, other x32/86: 20GB, other x64: 32GB | |||
| Windows 7 | NT 6.1.7600 | October 22, 2009 |
|
| x32/x86: 1GB, x64: 2GB [12] | x32/x86: 16GB, x64: 20GB |
| Windows Server 2008 R2 | 2010 |
| 512 MB | Foundation: 10GB, others: 32GB | ||
| Windows Embedded Compact 7 | CE 6.0 R3 | 2011 |
| |||
| Windows Server 2012 | NT 6.2 | 2012 |
| 512MB | 32GB | |
| Windows 8 | NT 6.2 | October 26, 2012 |
|
| x32/x86: 1GB, x64: 2GB [16] | x32/x86: 16GB, x64: 20GB |
| Windows RT | NT 6.3 | October 30, 2012 |
|
| 32-Bit: 2GB [16] | 32-Bit: 20GB, 32GB |
| Windows Server 2012 R2 | NT 6.3 | 2013 |
| 512MB | 32GB | |
| Windows 8.1 | NT 6.3 | October 17, 2013 | Slight update from 8.0 which brings back the Start button |
| x32/x86: 1GB, x64: 2GB [16] | |
| Windows 10 | NT 6.4 [17] | July 29, 2015 |
|
| x32/x86: 1GB, x64: 2GB [19] | x32/x86: 16GB, x64: 20GB [20][21] |
| Windows Server 2016 | October 12, 2016 (RTM: September 26, 2016) |
| ||||
| Name | Version Number | Public Release | Notes | Editions | Minimum RAM required | Minimum drive space |
(Some popular NT releases are listed in bold and special server releases are listed in italic.) [22] [23] [24] [25]
The Evolution of Microsoft Windows Operating System
Published on August 19, 2015 By Amit Kumar
We all know that Microsoft Windows Operating System is the most popular and most used operating systems in Desktop and laptop computers. But, do you know about the evolution and history of Windows?
The Microsoft Windows is just like “one man army” in the field of operating systems because the company is efficiently providing Windows operating system services from past 30 years and people are happy with it. Even after independently ruling the operating system industry from years, the Microsoft Windows is still the most powerful and beneficial OS provider.
In this high technology era, the expectations of people have extremely grown up and they are ready to grab all the advanced services quickly. But Microsoft Windows Operating System is still the king of the game. For the example, you can see the Microsoft’s newly released Windows operating system “Windows 10“.
Windows 10 is the most advanced, full with features, fast and attractive operating system of Windows. If you are using Windows operating system from years, but still not familiar with the History of Microsoft windows operating system then you must take advantage from the below-mentioned glimpse of Microsoft Windows Operating System history.
Related tips you might like »»
The History of Microsoft Windows Operating System
Most of us know very well about the founder of Windows operating system and the most popular Windows operating system by Microsoft. But very few of us know – What was Microsoft’s first operating system? And, In Microsoft windows how many types of operating systems are there?
In this Microsoft Windows guide, I am going to explain about the evolution of Microsoft Windows Operating System over 30 years. So, let’s have a look at the glimpse of Microsoft Windows Operating System history:
In 1983, Microsoft announced the development of Windows operating system, a graphical user interface (GUI) for its own operating system (MS-DOS). Over 30 years later a lot of things has changed, let’s start observing the things:
Windows 1.0
The first version of Microsoft Windows (Windows 1.0) was released on November 20, 1985. It was one of the most surprising moments for all computer users because now they were able to move a mouse to point and click their way through the screen in the place of typing MS‑DOS commands.
Windows 1.0 was introduced with several basic programs like MS‑DOS file management, Paint, Windows Writer, Notepad, Calculator, and a calendar, card file, and clock etc. Even a game called “Reversi” was also included with the Microsoft’s first Windows operating system.
Windows 2.0
Just after the two years, Microsoft released Windows 2.0 on December 9, 1987. The second version of Windows was introduced with desktop icons and expanded memory. Along with the Windows 2’s improved graphics support, now users were able to overlap windows, manage the screen layout, and use keyboard shortcuts etc to speed up their work.
The most interesting thing, Control Panel made its first appearance in Windows 2.0 operating system.
Windows 3.0
After launching two successful versions of Windows, Microsoft made an announcement about its third operating system (Windows 3.0) on May 22, 1990. This new Windows operating system was quite popular because of its good performance, advanced graphics with 16 colors, and improved icons.
Windows 3.0 was released with full support for the Intel 386 processor, Program Manager, File Manager, and Print Manager etc. With this OS, all the programs were running noticeably faster in comparison to other older versions of Windows.
Windows 3.1
Windows 3.1 was released in 1992. Basically, Windows 3.1 was the updated version of Windows 3.0. People felt attracted towards it because Windows 3.1 required only 1MB of RAM to run and allowed all supported MS-DOS programs to be controlled with a mouse.
Addition to all these things, Windows 3.1 operating system was also the first Windows version to be distributed on a CD-ROM. Microsoft Minesweeper’s appearance was another interesting thing.
Windows 95
After the three years of accurate observations of users activities, Microsoft released the new version of Windows called “Windows 95” on August 24, 1995. Windows 95 was the first Windows operating system that came with a Start button and Start menu.
The most exciting thing, Windows 95 was built with Internet support, dial-up networking, and new Plug and Play capacities that allow installing hardware and software easily.
Windows 98
Windows 98 was the last version of Windows based on MS‑DOS which was released on June 25, 1998. It was designed specifically for consumers. Windows 98 was the first version of Windows that introduced back and forward navigation buttons and the address bar in Windows Explorer, among all other things.
Along with the support for reading DVD discs and universal serial bus (USB) devices, it came with many other improved features that help users to open and close programs more quickly.
Windows Me
Technically, Windows Me (released on September 2000) was specially designed for home computer use. It provides countless music, video, and home networking enhancements and reliability improvements compared to all previous versions of Windows. Also, the Windows Me Edition was the last Windows operating system to be based on Windows 95 code-base.
Windows Me landed with many helpful features like System Restore, Movie Maker, Microsoft Windows Media Player 7 technologies etc.
Windows 2000 Professional
Windows 2000 Professional is the enterprise twin of Windows Me which was released on February 2000. It was based on Microsoft’s business-oriented system Windows NT Workstation 4.0 and later it became the basis for Windows XP.
Actually, Windows 2000 Professional is specially designed to replace all other old versions of Windows including Windows 95, Windows 98, and Windows NT Workstation 4.0 on all business computer desktops and laptops.
Windows XP
Concretely one of the best Microsoft’s Windows versions, Windows XP was released on October 2001. The redesigned look and feel with great accessibility and a unified Help and Support services center made this operating system more awesome. Windows XP was also the longest running Microsoft’s Windows operating system.
Windows XP was really quite stable, usable, and fast in all ways. It was available in 25 different languages. Navigation simplicity of the Start menu, taskbar, and Control Panel are more intuitive. Windows XP operating system has several editions like Windows XP 64-bit Edition (2001)| Windows XP Media Center Edition (2002) | Windows XP Tablet PC Edition (2002).
Windows Vista
After the 6 years long journey of Windows XP, Windows Vista was released in 2006. Windows Vista was specially security focused operating system which was available in 35 different languages. System design plays a big role in Windows Vista, many features like the taskbar, Start button, Search menu received a brand new look with this operating system.
Windows Vista was introduced with the new features like speech recognition, Windows DVD Maker and Photo Galler etc. Addition to these things, it was also the first Windows version to be distributed on DVD.
Windows 7
Windows 7 was first released in October 2009 along with some very interesting features such as faster booting, Device Stage, Windows PowerShell, less obtrusive User Account Control, multi-touch, and improved window management etc. Windows 7 operating system is available in six different editions:
- Windows 7 Starter (available worldwide)
- Windows 7 Home Basic
- Windows 7 Home Premium
- Windows 7 Professional
- Windows 7 Enterprise (available to volume-license business customers only)
- Windows 7 Ultimate (available to retail market with limited availability to OEMs)
Undoubtedly, Windows 7 is faster, more stable and easier to use. According to the Wikipedia’s usage share of operating systems list, Windows 7 is the most used Windows operating system on Desktop and laptop computers. In order to get more interesting guide related to Windows 7 operating system, check out our Windows 7 Tutorials section.
Windows 8
Windows 8 was Microsoft’s most good looking and colorful operating system released on October 2012. Windows 8 was the first version of Windows that come up with a totally new interface that works quite smoothly for both touch and mouse and keyboard. It features a Start screen (updated Start menu) with apps and tiles that connect to people, files, apps, and websites etc.
Basically, Windows 8 operating system is focused more on the touch screen than a keyboard and mouse. Windows 8 operating system is available in the following editions:
- Windows 8
- Windows 8 Pro
- Windows 8 Enterprise
- Windows RT
Windows 8.1
Windows 8.1 is the advanced version of Windows 8 operating system introduced in October 2013. It offers a powerful collection of Windows apps and cloud connectivity on most of the compatible devices. It comes up with some interesting improvements and new features like changes in user interface and desktop, apps, online services and functionality, security and hardware compatibility, hardware functionality etc.
Addition to all these changes, Windows 8.1 is also full with various new built-in apps such as Bing Food & Drink, Bing Health & Fitness, and some great utility apps like Reading List, Calculator, and Alarms etc. Windows 8.1 operating system is available in the following editions:
- Windows RT 8.1
- Windows 8.1 Edition
- Windows 8.1 Pro Edition
- Windows 8.1 Enterprise Edition
Windows 10
Windows 10 is the newly released (July 29, 2015) Windows operating system of the Microsoft. Windows 10 operating system is the most advanced version of Microsoft Windows which is introduced with a number of new features like Cortana, the Microsoft Edge, The Start menu, Windowed Windows Store apps, Virtual desktops/Task View, Action Center, Revamped core apps, The Xbox app, Continuum, Unified settings, and much more.
Actually, Windows 10 combines the strengths of Windows 8 with Windows 7 operating system. Microsoft Edge is the new Web browser of Windows 10 which is specially designed to be a lightweight web browser. Windows 10 operating system is available in the following editions:
- Windows 10 Home
- Windows 10 Pro
- Windows 10 Enterprise
- Windows 10 Enterprise 2015 LTSB
- Windows 10 Education
- Windows 10 Mobile
- Windows 10 Mobile Enterprise
- Windows 10 IoT Core
Windows 10 offering free upgrade to Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 users for the first year. So, if you are using a genuine version of Windows then you can easily upgrade to Windows 10 for free from Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 operating system. If you want perform a clean Windows 10 installation, you can do it by creating Windows 10 bootable USB flash drive.
Thus, you can see how amazingly Microsoft Windows operating system received the exclusive designs, features, new services, and well optimized structures. I am quite sure, you found the above mentioned glimpse of Microsoft Windows Operating System history useful for you.
