The windows system is an operating system developed, sold, and marketed by Microsoft. Its major features include efficient speed, enhanced interface and program execution. It is also compatible with various hardware devices.
The early versions of windows were graphical shells that ran on top of MS-DOS. Later versions of Windows bypassed DOS and ran on a code base known as the NT kernel.
It is a graphical user interface (GUI)
GUIs allow users to interact with computers using a graphical representation of objects. They can be operated using a mouse, keyboard or touch screen. Most modern operating systems have a GUI interface, and many programs also use one. Examples of these include web browsers and word processors.
Computers with a GUI have a desktop environment that displays windows, icons and menus. They can also be controlled by voice commands, depending on the device.
In the early 1980s, Apple introduced its Lisa computer with a GUI, and various windowing systems were available for MS-DOS. Microsoft Windows 1.0 was released in 1985 and was the first true GUI for the PC. It used a standardized system called the Windows icons, menus, pointer (WIMP) interface.
Windows 1.0 included features such as resizable windows and overlapping windows, which were not available on earlier systems. It also featured a task bar and a control panel where users could access system settings.
It is a multitasking operating system
Multitasking operating systems allow you to work on several applications at the same time. The system manages the input/output devices, processes and their mechanisms to make sure that different tasks can use them without interference. The system also controls hardware interruptions and manages resources like memory and central processing units (CPU).
A multitasking OS can increase productivity by allowing multiple programs to execute simultaneously. It uses virtual memory management techniques to allow applications to access more memory than is physically available. It also allows programs to swap pages of memory between physical RAM and secondary storage, such as a hard disk.
Preemptive multitasking is a more efficient method of utilizing the CPU than cooperative multitasking. This technique puts the operating system in charge of determining which program should get the processor first. It can prevent a badly written program from hoarding the processor by preempting its use of the machine. It is used by UNIX and MacOS.
It is compatible with various hardware devices
The windows system is compatible with various hardware devices, making it easy to use for a variety of tasks. It also includes a built-in security system to protect your computer from malware and viruses. It is a popular choice for desktop computers, laptops, tablets and servers.
Microsoft’s first Windows version was released in 1985. Its name was inspired by the computing boxes (windows) that were a fundamental part of the machine. It allowed users to navigate a virtual desktop and open graphical “windows” displaying electronic folders and files, rather than typing MS-DOS commands at a text prompt.
The Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) helps manufacturers develop systems that are compatible with Windows devices. It includes specifications for compatibility testing, products and processes, and useful business process requirements. It also helps developers build hardware that meets Windows quality standards, and it provides a way to verify that the hardware meets Windows system requirements. WHCP is an excellent resource for developers.
It is easy to install
The Windows operating system is easy to install on a computer, especially when it comes preloaded from the manufacturer. However, it’s important to make sure the hardware is compatible with the chosen version of Windows. Before installing, check the Windows compatibility list to see if your computer’s hardware is compatible.
You can also install Windows on a barebones computer using a VM, although you will need to add drivers for the hardware you’re using. After you have installed the OS, it’s time to set up your preferences. You can do this through the Control Panel. You’ll need to set your region and keyboard input.
To change the boot order, you must enter your BIOS or CMOS settings and set your Windows installation disc or USB drive to be the first device in the boot process. Save the changes and reboot the computer. The Windows installation should start automatically. It will ask you whether to perform a fresh install or upgrade the existing files on your computer.