What is Windows Operating System ?

Windows Operating System (OS) is a group of software programs that manage the hardware and software resources of a computer. It is the most widely used operating system in the world, with over 90% market share in the personal computer market.

The first version of Windows was released in 1985, and since then, it has undergone numerous updates and upgrades. The latest version of Windows is Windows 10, which was released in 2015.

One of the main features of Windows is its graphical user interface (GUI), which allows users to interact with the computer using visual elements such as icons and windows. This makes it easier for users to navigate and perform tasks on the computer.

Windows also includes a range of built-in applications such as a web browser, email client, media player, and productivity tools like Microsoft Office. These applications can be accessed through the Start menu or taskbar, which is located at the bottom of the screen.

In addition to these features, Windows also includes a range of security measures to protect the computer from viruses and other threats. These include a firewall, antivirus software, and Windows Defender, which is a built-in security tool that helps to protect against malware and other online threats.

One of the main advantages of using Windows is its compatibility with a wide range of hardware and software. It can run on a range of devices, including desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. It also supports a wide range of software applications, making it a versatile operating system for businesses and individuals alike.

Another advantage of Windows is its regular updates and support. Microsoft releases updates for Windows on a regular basis, which include new features, security updates, and bug fixes. These updates are free to download and install, and they help to keep the operating system running smoothly and securely.

There are a few disadvantages of using Windows, however. One of the main criticisms of the operating system is its susceptibility to malware and other security threats. While Windows has built-in security measures, these can sometimes be inadequate, and users may need to install additional security software to protect their computers.

Another disadvantage of Windows is its cost. While the operating system is widely available and often comes pre-installed on new computers, users may need to purchase a license if they wish to upgrade to the latest version or install it on a new device.

Overall, Windows Operating System is a powerful and widely used operating system that offers a range of features and benefits for users. It is user-friendly, compatible with a wide range of hardware and software, and regularly updated to ensure its security and performance. While it has its drawbacks, it remains a popular choice for individuals and businesses alike.

History of Windows Operating System creation :

The history of the Windows operating system dates back to the early 1980s, when Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and his team began working on a project called "Interface Manager." This project was designed to be a graphical user interface (GUI) for the company's newly-developed MS-DOS operating system, which was released in 1981.

The first version of Windows, called Windows 1.0, was released in November 1985. It was a simple operating system that allowed users to run multiple programs at once, using icons and windows to navigate between them. However, it did not gain much popularity due to its limited functionality and high price.

In 1987, Microsoft released Windows 2.0, which introduced several new features such as improved graphics, support for expanded memory, and the ability to run Microsoft Word and Excel. However, it was still not widely adopted due to its high price and the fact that it was only compatible with certain hardware.

In 1990, Microsoft released Windows 3.0, which became a major success and helped popularize the use of GUI-based operating systems. It introduced several new features such as virtual memory, support for long filenames, and a redesigned user interface. It also introduced the "Program Manager," which allowed users to organize and access their programs more easily.

In 1992, Microsoft released Windows NT, a more advanced operating system designed for businesses. It introduced support for 32-bit processors, preemptive multitasking, and support for networking. It was the first version of Windows to support multiple processor architectures, including Intel x86, MIPS, and DEC Alpha.

In 1995, Microsoft released Windows 95, which introduced several new features such as the "Start" button, the "Taskbar," and support for Plug and Play hardware. It also introduced support for long filenames and the ability to access the Internet using dial-up connections.

In 1998, Microsoft released Windows 98, which introduced support for USB devices and the ability to access the Internet using a broadband connection. It also introduced support for the FAT32 file system, which allowed for larger hard drive partitions and faster data transfer speeds.

In 2000, Microsoft released Windows 2000, which was designed for businesses and introduced support for active directory and network printing. It also introduced support for the NTFS file system, which provided better security and reliability compared to FAT32.

In 2001, Microsoft released Windows XP, which became one of the most popular versions of Windows. It introduced several new features such as the "Windows Media Player," "Windows Messenger," and support for Windows Update. It also introduced a new user interface called "Luna," which was designed to be more visually appealing.

In 2006, Microsoft released Windows Vista, which introduced several new features such as a redesigned user interface, improved security features, and support for high-definition displays. However, it received criticism for its high system requirements and issues with compatibility.

In 2009, Microsoft released Windows 7, which addressed many of the issues with Vista and introduced several new features such as improved performance, a redesigned taskbar, and support for touchscreen devices.

In 2012, Microsoft released Windows 8, which introduced a new user interface designed for touchscreen devices and support for hybrid devices such as laptops with touchscreen displays. It also introduced support for the Metro design language, which was later renamed to the "Microsoft Design Language."

In 2015, Microsoft released Windows 10, which introduced several new features such as the "Cortana" virtual assistant, the "Microsoft Edge" web browser, and support for virtual reality. It also introduced a new user interface called "Microsoft Fluent Design," which is designed to be more visually appealing and consistent across devices.