The story of MS Windows, the world’s most popular operating system, begins with Windows 1.0. Released in 1985, it was not a roaring success, nor was it particularly well-liked. Microsoft began to make headway in the industry when Windows 2.0 arrived on the scene two years later.
Windows 2.0 was a vast improvement over its predecessor. It allowed users to overlap windows and resize them dynamically, which was a game-changer. Unfortunately, Apple was quick to sue Microsoft for copying its GUI elements, causing a legal headache for the company.
It wasn’t until the release of Windows 3.0 in 1990 that Microsoft made its biggest breakthrough yet. Windows 3.0 was designed to take advantage of the new Intel 386 processors, which allowed for more memory and multitasking capabilities. With a revamped interface that featured more colors and better graphics, Windows 3.0 introduced the Program Manager and File Manager applications that replaced the MS-DOS Executive, making it much easier for users to organize their programs and files.
Windows 3.1, released in 1992, was a resounding success. It sold over 10 million copies in its first two years and became the standard operating system for most PCs. In addition to TrueType fonts, Windows 3.1 introduced OLE, File Manager Enhancements, Program Manager Enhancements, Multimedia Viewer, Solitaire, Minesweeper, Hearts, and Reversi.
Windows NT, released in 1993, was a different version of Windows that was designed for business and professional use. It was more secure, stable, and powerful than the consumer versions of Windows, and it supported multiple processors, large memory, and advanced networking. It also featured a similar interface to Windows 3.1 and later Windows 95.
Windows 95, released in 1995, was a major milestone for Microsoft and Windows. It was the first version of Windows that did not run on top of MS-DOS, but rather replaced it completely. Windows 95 introduced a new interface that included the Start menu, the taskbar, and the desktop. It also included Plug and Play, 32-bit architecture, Internet Explorer, Windows Explorer, Recycle Bin, MSN, Solitaire, Minesweeper, Hearts, and Reversi.
Windows NT 4.0, released in 1996, added support for the Windows 95 interface and Internet Explorer. It was followed by Windows NT 5.0, which was later renamed to Windows 2000.
Windows 2000, released in 2000, was a major upgrade for Microsoft and Windows NT. It was the first version of Windows that integrated Active Directory, a directory service that allowed administrators to manage users, computers, and resources on a network. It also featured a new file system called NTFS 3.0, which supported encryption, compression, and permissions.
Windows XP, released in 2001, unified the consumer and business versions of Windows and introduced a new interface called Luna. It included Fast User Switching, Remote Desktop, ClearType, Windows Movie Maker, Windows Media Center, and the Xbox app.
Windows Vista, released in 2006, added support for new hardware technologies, such as USB 3.0, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. It introduced a new interface that used more transparency and effects and included the Start menu, the sidebar, and the gadgets. It also included User Account Control, Aero, ReadyBoost, Windows Defender, and Windows Photo Gallery.
Windows 7, released in 2009, fixed many of the issues and complaints that users had with Vista. It introduced a new interface that used more colors and animations and included the Start button, the taskbar, and the desktop. It also included Cortana, Edge, Windows Hello, Windows Ink, and the Xbox app.
Windows 8, released in 2012, added support for touchscreens, tablets, and hybrid devices. It introduced a new interface that used tiles and gestures and included the Start screen, the charms bar, and the apps. It also included the Windows Store, Windows RT, SkyDrive, Xbox Music, and Xbox Video.
Windows 10, released in 2015, merged the desktop and tablet interfaces and introduced a new feature called Cortana. It was followed by Windows Server 2016, which added support for containers, microservices, and cloud-native applications.
Windows 10 was a major update for Microsoft and Windows. It used a service model, which meant that it would receive regular updates and improvements instead of major releases. It introduced a new interface that used tiles and icons and included the Start menu, the Action Center, and the Task View.
Now, with the release of Windows 11, Microsoft continues to innovate and improve its operating system. Windows 11 features a new, modern design, with rounded corners and transparency effects. It includes new productivity features, such as Snap Layouts, Snap Groups, and Desktops. It also includes a new Microsoft Store, which allows users to download and install Android apps on their PCs.
Windows 11 also includes improvements to gaming, with DirectStorage and Auto HDR, which improve game loading times and graphics. It also includes improvements to touch, voice, and pen input, making it easier to use on tablets and 2-in-1 devices.
The story of MS Windows is one of innovation, improvement, and adaptation. From humble beginnings with Windows 1.0 to the release of Windows 11, Microsoft has continued to push the boundaries of what an operating system can do. With each new version, Microsoft has introduced new features and improvements that have made Windows the most popular operating system in the world. And with the release of Windows 11, Microsoft shows no signs of slowing down, continuing to innovate and improve its flagship product.
Maher Asaad Baker
https://maher.solav.me
(Pictures Used By Author For Demonstration Purpose)