Windows is an operating system developed, sold and marketed by Microsoft. It is part of a series of proprietary graphical operating system families designed for a variety of computer hardware.
It allows users to visually navigate a virtual desktop, opening graphical “windows” to display files and applications rather than typing commands at a text prompt. This article provides 10 ways to easily view computer system information on Windows 10 and 11.
Windows 1
Microsoft’s first attempt at a GUI operating system was released in November 1985. It ran on top of MS-DOS and allowed the user to navigate graphical “windows” to launch various programs, unlike earlier Microsoft software that relied on text commands and command-line input.
It was a hit with business users, but many consumers were left underwhelmed. It also had a problem getting software developers to create programs for its new graphical environment. It would take two more versions for Windows to catch on.
Windows 2
Originally called Interface Manager, it was Microsoft’s first operating system that you could control with a mouse instead of typing commands. This version introduced overlapping windows and caused Apple to file a lawsuit for violating its graphical user interface copyrights.
It also improved performance with a new variant for 386 processors that used protected mode to preemptively multitask MS-DOS applications. It also included TrueType fonts and introduced the card-moving timewaster Solitaire. It was succeeded by Windows 3.0 in May 1990.
Windows 3
Windows 3.0 introduced a new graphical user interface that allowed applications to be launched using icons instead of the text-based list of file names seen in previous versions of Microsoft’s operating system. It also included basic networking capabilities.
It ran in the protected mode of the CPU (as opposed to standard mode) and broke DOS’s infamous one megabyte memory barrier, allowing programs to use up to 16MB of RAM. It also supported multitasking and enabled mouse control of MS-DOS based programs for the first time.
Windows 4
Microsoft Windows is an operating system that allows users to perform various tasks on their computers like play games, create digital photos, and manage information. It also helps them to connect to the Internet.
Microsoft redesigned the GUI and borrowed some aspects of the Macintosh user interface, though it had to limit this borrowing due to a license with Apple. The result was a more graphical system with windows that can be moved, dropped, or resized.
It was faster and more stable than XP, and it had features such as voice recognition and a Windows DVD maker. It also included a new browser ballot screen to choose which program to install on first boot.
Windows XP
Windows XP is an operating system that was very popular in the early 2000s. Many people still use it because of the nostalgia and because it reminds them of a simpler time.
In the next step, setup asks you for a region and language setting. Select the one that you wish to use and press Next.
You will also have the option to format the partition with NTFS or FAT. NTFS offers better data storage capacity and security functions by default, so you should choose this option if possible.
Windows Vista
Windows Vista, code-named Longhorn, is an upgrade to the Windows XP operating system. It includes new hardware support and improved graphics performance. It also incorporates speech recognition. The system is available in several editions, including a version designed for small business use.
Enhanced security features include image-based installation and non-hardware-dependent images, plus privilege restriction techniques such as address space layout randomization. Other improvements include the aero interface, Windows search, sidebar and gadgets, user account control, and Bit Lock drive encryption.
Windows 7
The successor to Windows Vista, Microsoft Windows 7 is an incremental upgrade intended to address the operating system’s critical reception and maintain hardware and software compatibility. Features include a redesigned taskbar called the Superbar, pinned applications, multitouch support, a home networking system called HomeGroup and performance improvements.
It also introduces the ability to run multiple versions of Windows on the same PC through Windows XP Mode, and includes several media features and new gadgets. Windows 7 has reached its end of mainstream support and will no longer receive security updates.
Windows 8
The latest version of Microsoft’s Windows operating system is called Windows 8. It was released to the public in October 2012 after being released to manufacturers on August 1, 2012.
It features a different interface designed for touch screens and other modern uses. This includes a new App Store for downloading and installing apps, multiple login options including a picture password, a better antivirus program, USB 3.0 support and more.
It also synchronizes desktop settings with the Microsoft cloud to allow you to use your computer on multiple devices.