The windows system is one of the world’s most popular operating systems. It features an intuitive user interface that allows users to organize files, folders, and applications. It also supports a wide variety of hardware and software programs.
The architecture includes the kernel, a hardware abstraction layer (HAL), and user-mode components such as the Win32 subsystem. It enables preemptive multitasking and virtual memory, and provides task scheduling and access control for system resources.
Multitasking
Modern digital demands call for flexible multitasking capabilities. Whether you’re working in a hybrid work/home setup, hopping between a laptop docked at your office and a projector in a coffee shop, or simply need to keep track of multiple apps while at work, Windows delivers with productivity-boosting features like Snap and Multiple Desktops.
Snap was first introduced in Windows 7 and received an upgrade in Windows 11, with more options for managing your workspace. It’s easy to learn the keyboard shortcuts and drag gestures for this feature, but it is also possible to go beyond the basic snap with features like Snap Layouts and Snap Groups.
Similarly, using multiple desktops helps to manage different projects or moods, making it easier to switch into a Zoom meeting without interrupting a creative flow. Additionally, web browsing can be done with ease thanks to Tabs in the taskbar. Moreover, the latest versions of Windows and Microsoft Edge let you jump between app and web tabs with Alt + Tab.
Security
Windows has several security capabilities to help keep your computer or laptop safe from malicious viruses, hacker attacks and more. These include virus & threat protection, firewall & network protection and account protection. Windows also helps facilitate file management, accessibility rights configuration and operating system updates.
A built-in security app provides easy access to the most common security features. For example, the SmartScreen feature enables you to see whether an application is known as trustworthy or not. It also alerts you to unauthorized changes to the system.
Additionally, the Windows platform supports processors with virtualization extensions that improve security capabilities at the chip level. This includes enabling passwordless logins with Hello, which uses the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) to store a secret key in hardware to protect against the types of password attacks that were responsible for many of the recent breaches. It can also bind web-based credentials to the machine, preventing them from being extracted or stolen by attackers.
Hardware compatibility
Windows offers compatibility with a wide range of hardware devices, including printers, scanners, AIO computers and web cameras. It also supports various languages and interface controls, such as voice activation and multitouch gestures. Its popularity makes it a popular choice for businesses seeking to optimize their IT infrastructure and provide technical support to end users.
The latest version of Windows, Windows 11, requires specific hardware, including TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. As such, older systems may require hardware upgrades or replacements to meet compatibility standards. Luckily, there are several ways to check system specifications, including the CPU type, memory and BIOS or UEFI firmware.
The Microsoft Hardware Compatibility Program (often referred to as HCL, or the Windows Logo’d Products List) is a comprehensive certification program for hardware devices that run on a Windows operating system. It provides a single location for developers to manage submissions, test drivers and review telemetry. In addition, the program provides resources for certifying and developing hardware-based security.
Easy to use
The clean, lucid GUI provided by Windows makes it easy for users to navigate and understand. This feature allows them to multitask efficiently and boost productivity. It also helps them to work better with colleagues and partners.
With its first release in 1985, Microsoft’s Windows operating system introduced the world to graphical user interfaces (GUIs). It quickly became a leading OS and continues to dominate the market today.
The system can be customized to fit the user’s unique needs and preferences. This includes customization of system settings, desktop appearance, and hardware configuration. It also facilitates security through data storage and access rights configuration. It also provides tools to manage and update software applications and the OS. Windows also supports multiple languages and can easily be installed on a variety of devices. Its popularity among gamers and programmers is due to its compatibility with third-party software. It also offers a simplified upgrade process that preserves all apps, settings, and data.