LeoGlossary: Windows (Operating System)
The Windows operating system is a group of several proprietary graphical operating system families developed and marketed by Microsoft. Each family caters to a certain sector of the computing industry. For example, Windows NT for consumers, Windows server for servers, and Windows IoT for embedded systems.
Windows got started in 1981, when Microsoft began developing a graphical user interface (GUI) for its MS-DOS operating system. The GUI was called Interface Manager, and it was released in 1983.
What Windows Does
The Windows operating system does a lot of things. It is responsible for managing the computer's hardware and software resources, and providing a user interface for the user to interact with the computer.
Here is a summary of some of the key things that the Windows operating system does:
- Boot the computer: The Windows operating system is responsible for booting the computer, which is the process of starting up the computer and loading the operating system into memory.
- Manage memory: The Windows operating system manages the computer's memory, allocating memory to programs and data as needed.
- Manage processes: The Windows operating system manages the computer's processes, which are running programs. The Windows operating system schedules processes to run on the CPU and manages their access to resources.
- Provide device drivers: The Windows operating system provides device drivers, which are software programs that allow the operating system to communicate with hardware devices, such as printers and storage devices.
- Provide a user interface: The Windows operating system provides a user interface, which is the way that users interact with the computer. The user interface can be a command-line interface (CLI) or a graphical user interface (GUI).
In addition to these core functions, the Windows operating system also provides a number of other features and functionality, such as:
- File management: The Windows operating system provides a file management system that allows users to create, move, copy, and delete files and folders.
- Networking: The Windows operating system provides networking support, which allows users to connect to other computers and to the Internet.
- Security: The Windows operating system provides security features that protect the computer from viruses, malware, and other threats.
- Accessibility: The Windows operating system provides accessibility features that make it easier for people with disabilities to use the computer.
The Windows operating system is a complex and powerful software program that does a lot of things behind the scenes to make it possible for users to use their computers. The Windows operating system is essential for the operation of most modern computers, and it is used by billions of people around the world.
History of Windows and Versions
The first version of Windows, called Windows 1.0, was released in 1985 as a graphical user interface (GUI) add-on to Microsoft's MS-DOS operating system. Windows 1.0 was not a complete operating system in its own right, but it was the first step towards the development of the modern Windows operating system.
Windows 2.0, released in 1987, was the first version of Windows to be considered a true operating system. It introduced a number of new features, including overlapping windows, keyboard shortcuts, and a control panel.
Windows 3.0, released in 1990, was a major breakthrough for the Windows operating system. It introduced a number of new features, including a new graphical user interface, support for virtual memory, and improved networking capabilities. Windows 3.0 was also the first version of Windows to be widely adopted by consumers.
Windows 95, released in 1995, was a major update to the Windows operating system. It introduced a number of new features, including a new graphical user interface, a built-in web browser, and support for Plug and Play devices. Windows 95 was also the first version of Windows to be marketed directly to consumers.
Windows 98, released in 1998, was a minor update to the Windows operating system. It introduced a number of new features, including support for the Universal Serial Bus (USB), enhanced networking capabilities, and improved performance.
Windows 2000, released in 2000, was a major update to the Windows NT operating system. It introduced a number of new features, including improved stability, better security, and support for Active Directory. Windows 2000 was also the first version of Windows to be marketed specifically to businesses.
Windows XP, released in 2001, was a major update to the Windows operating system. It introduced a number of new features, including a new graphical user interface, support for wireless networking, and improved security. Windows XP was also the first version of Windows to be marketed as a unified operating system for both consumers and businesses.
Windows Vista, released in 2006, was a major update to the Windows operating system. It introduced a number of new features, including a new graphical user interface, Windows Defender, and Windows Aero. Windows Vista was also the first version of Windows to require a significant amount of hardware resources to run.
Windows 7, released in 2009, was a major update to the Windows operating system. It was designed to address some of the criticisms of Windows Vista, such as its high hardware requirements and its complex user interface. Windows 7 was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered to be one of the best versions of Windows ever released.
Windows 8, released in 2012, was a major departure from previous versions of Windows. It introduced a new touch-based graphical user interface called the Metro user interface. Windows 8 was designed to be used on both traditional desktop computers and on new touch-based devices, such as tablets and smartphones. However, the Metro user interface was not well-received by desktop users, and Microsoft released Windows 8.1 in 2013 with a number of improvements to the desktop user interface.
Windows 10, released in 2015, was a major update to the Windows operating system. It combined the features of Windows 8.1 with a more traditional desktop user interface. Windows 10 also introduced a number of new features, such as the Start menu, Microsoft Edge web browser, and Cortana virtual assistant. Windows 10 has been a critical and commercial success, and it is the most popular version of Windows to date.
The latest version of Windows is Windows 11, released in 2021. It features a new user interface, a new Start menu, and a number of other improvements.
Windows is the most popular operating system in the world, with over 1 billion active devices. It is used by consumers, businesses, and governments all over the globe. Windows is a powerful and versatile operating system that offers a wide range of features and functionality.
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