Windows system is a computer operating system developed by Microsoft. It is used worldwide and has been updated in several versions since its first release in 1985.
It is named after the window feature, which provides a visual way to manage computer applications. Its other functions include multitasking, providing technical support, and allowing users to connect hardware devices.
History
The windows system was first released by Microsoft in 1985. It was a graphic operating system that ran on top of MS-DOS and required 1 MB of memory. It did not allow applications to overlap. Microsoft improved windows by releasing version 2.0 in 1987. This version included 256 colors for the user interface and supported multitasking for older MS-DOS programs. It also introduced casual games like Solitaire and Minesweeper.
The 3.1x series of windows systems continued its success and Microsoft expanded it with the XP standard in 2001. The company designed it for different types of hardware and created versions that were aimed at consumers, businesses, multimedia developers and gamers.
Functions
The Windows operating system facilitates various functions such as computer security, file management and desktop appearance configuration. It also provides tools for operating system maintenance and updates.
Every graphical Windows-based application creates at least one main window that serves as its primary interface with the user. Most applications also create other windows to perform specific tasks.
A window’s position is determined by the coordinates of its upper left corner, relative to either the screen or, for child windows, the client area of its parent window. The FindWindow and FindWindowEx functions can retrieve a handle for a window by specifying its class name or window name.
Compatibility
Windows has extensive compatibility with a wide range of hardware components and software applications. This allows users to access a variety of programs and services from one platform, which facilitates collaboration and productivity. In addition, the system offers seamless integration with Microsoft’s office suite and other cloud-based services.
The operating system is also backward compatible, meaning that older programs can run on newer versions of the platform. This is an advantage for those who still use important programs or tools and don’t want to lose them when upgrading to a new operating system. The vast selection of programs also provides options for different needs and budgets.
Security
Windows security includes always-on content scanning, file and process behavior monitoring, and heuristics to detect and block malware threats. It also reduces data leak risks from bring your own device (BYOD) practices.
Windows 10 offers a variety of built-in security features, including User Access Control, which warns users when applications attempt to make changes without their permission. These features prevent malware from making unauthorized system modifications without the user’s consent.
Microsoft provides a range of online resources and customer support for Windows users. However, the software can be vulnerable to viruses and malware because it is widely used. In addition, Windows requires regular updates to maintain its security.
File management
File management is a set of features that allow users to control the way in which files are accessed by other applications. It includes the ability to share files, backup and recover files, compress and encrypt files and more.
NTFS and later Windows systems offer file system optimization features that improve disk storage efficiency. These include access-based enumeration, which filters shared folders’ visibility based on each user’s access rights.
Some system files are hidden by default because they contain settings and configurations that the operating system needs to function correctly. These files usually have the SYS extension and may be labeled “protected.” Attempts to rename or delete these files can cause them to become corrupted.
System setup
Create a clone of your primary system drive—the one Windows boots from—and save it to another hard drive. This way, you can boot your computer into a fresh, bloatware-free state if your primary system drive fails.
Review your computer’s hardware and software configuration, make changes to BIOS settings, and change system security options. You can also choose a diagnostic startup mode, which starts Windows with basic services and drivers to determine the cause of a problem.
Use the arrow keys to cycle through the available settings. Each setting is described as to whether it applies to the system setup or the installed operating system.