Microsoft Windows

Windows 3.0 workspace

Microsoft Windows for Workgroups 3.11 mit 9 Setup HD-Disketten

Windows Logo (1992-2001)

Windows logo and wordmark - 2012-2015

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Microsoft Windows is a group of several proprietary operating systems developed and marketed by Microsoft Corporation. It dominates the personal computer (PC) market, with over 75% market share. Windows provides a graphical user interface (GUI), virtual memory management, multitasking, and support for many peripheral devices.

History

The development of Windows began in the early 1980s when Microsoft started working on a program called "Interface Manager." It was announced in 1983 but released as Windows 1.0 in 1985. The name "Windows" was chosen because the system was based on "windows" that housed different programs. Windows 1.0 was not a complete operating system but rather an operating environment that ran on top of MS-DOS, a command-line operating system.

Following versions, such as Windows 2.0 and Windows 3.0, introduced more features and improvements, such as better memory management and more sophisticated GUIs. Windows 3.0, released in 1990, was the first widely successful version of Windows, selling millions of copies.

Windows 95 to Windows XP

The release of Windows 95 marked a significant change in the operating system's interface and capabilities. It introduced the Start menu, taskbar, and minimize/maximize/close buttons on each window. Windows 95 was also the first version of Windows to be a standalone operating system, not requiring MS-DOS to run.

Windows XP, released in 2001, was another landmark for Microsoft, combining the consumer-oriented features of Windows 95/98 with the stability and reliability of Windows NT. XP remained popular even several years after the release of subsequent versions, due to its stability and relatively low system requirements.

Windows Vista to Windows 10

Windows Vista, released in 2006, introduced the Aero graphical user interface and the UAC security feature. However, it was criticized for its high system requirements, compatibility issues, and restrictive licensing terms.

Windows 7, released in 2009, addressed many of Vista's shortcomings and was praised for its performance improvements, interface enhancements, and increased compatibility with applications and hardware.

Windows 8, released in 2012, introduced a significant change with its Metro interface, designed to improve the experience on touchscreen devices. However, the removal of the Start menu was unpopular among users.

Windows 10, released in 2015, marked a shift in Microsoft's operating system strategy, moving from a traditional release cycle to a "Windows as a Service" model. Windows 10 reintroduced the Start menu and combined features from Windows 7 and Windows 8.

Windows 11

In 2021, Microsoft announced Windows 11, the latest version of its operating system. Windows 11 introduced a redesigned Start menu, improved window management features, and tighter integration with Microsoft Teams. It also increased the minimum system requirements, which sparked some controversy.

Features

Microsoft Windows includes a range of features, such as:

• A user-friendly graphical user interface (GUI)
• Support for multitasking
• Virtual memory management
• A wide range of software applications
• Compatibility with various hardware devices

Security

Over the years, Windows has faced criticism for security vulnerabilities. However, Microsoft has made significant improvements in security, including the introduction of Windows Defender and regular security updates.

Market Share

Microsoft Windows holds a dominant position in the desktop and laptop operating system market. Its closest competitors are macOS and Linux, but neither comes close to Windows in terms of market share.

Conclusion

Microsoft Windows has played a pivotal role in the development of personal computing. Despite its challenges and competition, it remains the most widely used operating system in the world.

Microsoft Windows Resources
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