The windows system is an operating system that is developed by Microsoft. It is used on various types of computers and it also runs on mobile devices.
It is a multi-level layered operating system that provides targeted functionality to applications. It contains a kernel-mode layer, environment subsystems, and a hardware abstraction layer.
Windows 1.0
In 1985, Microsoft released its first major operating system. It was called Windows 1.0, and it was an ambitious attempt to take on Apple Computer’s Mac OS.
But despite its impressive features, Windows 1.0 received a lot of negative criticism. In particular, it was slow and required a minimum of 640K of RAM.
Windows 1.1
The Microsoft Windows operating system has changed quite a bit over 29 years, but many things have stayed the same. So let’s look at some of the most notable features that have remained intact over the years.
The first version of Windows, known as Windows 1.0 or simply Windows, was released in November 1985. It was a major milestone in computing, introducing multitasking and the mouse for the first time.
Windows 1.2
In 1985 Microsoft introduced Windows 1.0 as an “operating environment” that extended MS-DOS. This operating system featured graphical interface programs such as Paint and Calculator, and multitasking support.
Microsoft later released a second version, Windows 2.0. It was developed for the Intel 286 processor and added desktop icons, keyboard shortcuts, and improved graphics support.
Windows 1.3
The Windows system is designed to run on a variety of different hardware platforms. This includes Intel, AMD, and other microprocessors.
To achieve this, the operating system uses a kernel to perform a wide range of tasks including security, managing files, allowing apps to run and more.
The system has many other functions that are unique to it, such as support for multiple DOS virtual machines and preemptive multitasking. This allows a single application to run multiple tasks in the same time.
Windows 1.4
Despite a tumultuous history, Windows NT is still one of the most popular operating systems on the planet. It can run on Intel x86, PowerPC and Itanium processors. It supports multiple hardware and software interfaces, including COM (communications over network), a new protocol aimed at increasing interoperability.
Aside from its obvious flagship products, the windows system is also home to a bevy of lesser known software suites that make Windows the envy of most desktop computing environments.
Windows NT 3.1
Windows NT was Microsoft’s first 32-bit operating system. It included the first secure file system (NTFS), as well as a new registry for centralizing configurations and device drivers.
NT supports multiprocessing, which lets multiple processors work in parallel to execute applications. While this feature can improve application performance, it requires a substantial redesign of most existing programs.
Windows XP
Windows XP is the latest version of the Microsoft operating system. It is known for its stability and efficiency, and its tight integration of user applications.
Before installing Windows XP, create a backup copy of your data. This will save you from having to restore your data after the installation.
Windows 2000
Windows 2000 was Microsoft’s new operating system. It was released in 1999 and was designed to replace Windows NT.
It was available in various editions: Professional, Server, Advanced Server and Datacenter Server. Each was packaged separately.
Windows 2000 includes an encryption feature that encrypts drives, folders and files. This adds another layer of security and helps to prevent a hacker from taking ownership of your files by physically mounting the hard drive on another computer and using the password to access them.
Windows ME
Windows Millennium Edition, also known as Windows Me or simply Me, is an updated version of Microsoft’s Windows 9x operating system. It offers the latest in digital media, home networking and email services from Microsoft.
This version of Windows included many new features and improvements, including the ability to run on older hardware. It was also backward compatible with Windows 98, but restricted real-mode MS-DOS access.