Windows
Jump to navigation
Jump to search
Introduction to Windows Operating System
The Windows Operating System (OS) is a graphical, multi-user, multitasking operating system developed by Microsoft Corporation. It was first introduced in 1985 as an extension of MS-DOS (Microsoft Disk Operating System). Since then, it has become the most widely used operating system in the world for personal computers, laptops, servers, and even some embedded systems.
Why Windows?
Before Windows, most computers used a command-line interface (CLI), where users had to type commands to interact with the computer. Windows introduced a Graphical User Interface (GUI), where tasks could be performed using icons, menus, and windows with the help of a mouse, making computers easier for everyone to use.
Core Functions of Windows OS
- User Interface Management
- Provides a GUI with desktop, icons, taskbar, and start menu.
- Supports multiple virtual desktops and multitasking.
- Process and Task Management
- Manages running applications and background processes.
- Allows switching between apps and allocating system resources.
- Memory & File Management
- Handles system memory (RAM, cache, virtual memory).
- Organizes files into directories/folders using NTFS (New Technology File System) or FAT.
- Device & Hardware Control
- Uses device drivers for printers, scanners, GPUs, etc.
- Supports Plug and Play (PnP) to automatically detect new hardware.
- Networking and Communication
- Built-in support for LAN, Wi-Fi, VPN, and internet browsing.
- Provides remote desktop access and file sharing.
- Security & Protection
- User authentication (password, PIN, biometric login).
- Antivirus & firewall (Windows Defender).
- Encryption (BitLocker) for data security.
Types of Windows Editions
- Home Edition: For personal use (basic features).
- Professional (Pro): Adds business tools like Remote Desktop, Group Policy, and BitLocker.
- Enterprise Edition: For large organizations, advanced security, and IT management.
- Education Edition: Special edition for schools and universities.
Windows OS Releases
| Version | Release Year | Key Features / Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Windows 1.0 | 1985 | First graphical interface on top of MS-DOS; basic window management. |
| Windows 2.0 | 1987 | Overlapping windows, improved graphics, better memory management. |
| Windows 3.0 | 1990 | Improved GUI, 16-color support, Program Manager, and File Manager. |
| Windows 3.1 | 1992 | TrueType fonts, multimedia support, and drag-and-drop features. |
| Windows 95 | 1995 | Start menu, taskbar, 32-bit support, Plug and Play, Internet Explorer. |
| Windows 98 | 1998 | Better USB support, improved Internet integration, Windows Update. |
| Windows ME (Millennium Edition) | 2000 | System Restore, multimedia focus, last DOS-based Windows. |
| Windows 2000 | 2000 | NT-based OS for businesses, Active Directory, strong networking. |
| Windows XP | 2001 | Stable, user-friendly, widespread adoption, fast boot, Remote Desktop. |
| Windows Vista | 2007 | Aero Glass UI, User Account Control (UAC), improved security (but heavy). |
| Windows 7 | 2009 | Faster, stable, user-friendly, libraries, improved taskbar, touch support. |
| Windows 8 | 2012 | Start screen with tiles, touch-friendly UI, Windows Store introduced. |
| Windows 8.1 | 2013 | Brought back Start button, improved apps, better customization. |
| Windows 10 | 2015 | Continuum (desktop/tablet modes), Cortana, Microsoft Edge, regular updates. |
| Windows 11 | 2021 | Modern design, centered taskbar, DirectStorage, Android app support, enhanced security (TPM 2.0 required). |