Over time, Microsoft Windows has been categorized as one of the most complete operating systemsTherefore, it dominates this market with ease and, thanks to this, is installed on more than 90% of computers with Internet access.
In this sense, such an operating system can be defined as a set of programs that simplify the management of a PC's resources. This is especially true given the extensive development it has shown. during its 36 years of existenceTherefore, it is considered very important to know what versions of Windows exist to date.
That's why, in this post, we will focus on detailing the most important aspects surrounding to the origin and evolution of Microsoft WindowsIn addition, we will chronologically list the known versions of this OS, highlighting their most interesting features.
What unique features did the first version of Windows have?
To begin learning more about the early days of Microsoft Windows, it's necessary to outline the main features of its first version. We can illustrate this by explaining a little bit. about the origin and history of this renowned operating system.
Origin
First of all, it should be noted that the OS in question owes its name to an English word which, in Spanish, means "Window" And of course, it's related to how the system presents the user with their computer's resources, thus simplifying the execution of the most common tasks performed on the PC.
Now, this computer system It was developed and marketed starting in 1985 by Microsoft, a company founded by Bill Gates 10 years earlier, in 1975, and which initially began distributing the old MS-DOS operating system.
In this sense, at first, Windows was only created as an MS-DOS add-inHowever, given the innovative Graphical User Interface (GUI) it showcased to the public, it was considered one of the best computer proposals.
Although it certainly had some limitations, including, the impossibility of including a recycling bin or guaranteeing the overlapping of windowsThis was prevented by Apple to protect its operating system and thus prevent Microsoft from plagiarizing its product.
History
Regarding its history, Microsoft Windows did not have as easy a start as the public believes. This operating system was heavily criticized and accused of... to engage in unfair competition against Apple And with that, he became embroiled in a major controversy.
However, after this, and thanks to its popularity as a constantly growing and developing free software, it experienced a remarkable boom and attracted many manufacturers and buyers. This, starting with version 1.0 which employed around 55 programmers and was released to the market on November 20, 1985, specifically.
This version would originally be called “Interface Manager”But one of Microsoft's marketing managers noted that it would be better to name it "Windows" to appeal to a wider market. Essentially, it supported the use of a mouse, screen graphics, and device-independent printer, as well as drop-down menus.
Chronology of all existing versions of the Windows operating system
Now, we've reached the section of the post where we'll detail each and every version of Microsoft Windows that has ever existed. Which, of course, we will do. chronologically and highlighting the most interesting features, then:
Windows 1.0
Release Date: Nov 20, 1985
As we mentioned earlier, the first version of Windows was known as 1.0, which could be called “Interface Manager”But after analyzing certain marketing aspects, they decided to simply call it "Windows".
Among them all, this version stood out for the criticism it received. to be a kind of “copy” of Apple's interfaceIndeed, he couldn't include certain native Apple ideas, such as the recycle bin. He added these later after reaching an agreement with the Cupertino company.
Taking into account some other details, we can say that Windows 1.0 emerged as a graphical complement to the DOS operating system. Furthermore, its most significant new feature It was simply the addition of the Control Panel.
Windows 2.0
Release date: December 09 of 1987
Two years later, the second official version of the operating system in question was released. Although it was also designed to operate as an add-on to MS-DOS, It gained slightly more popularity than its predecessor..
In this sense, its success was due to the incorporation of new applications to facilitate certain tasks for its users, among which are: Excel and WordIn addition, he also added overlapping windows, icons, and PIF files for Microsoft's DOS operating system.
It should be noted that this version It received updates for 14 years.Therefore, it only received technical support from the company until 2001.
Windows NT
Release date: November 1988
Before the release of Windows NT, in addition to version 2.0, other versions were also released, such as: Windows / 286 2.10 and Windows / 386 2.10These were launched around May 27, 88, and were characterized by using real-mode memory and supporting, for the first time, HMA or High Memory Area (high memory area, in Spanish).
However, in that same year, Windows NT emerged once the company hired “Digital Equipment Corporation”A group of developers led by Dave Cutler created it. It was considered one of the most important systems of its time because it ran on multiple computer architecture instruction sets and hardware platforms. Furthermore, it was the first to introduce the Win32 API.
However, this version of Windows wasn't publicly demonstrated until 2001. At the time, it was called "Windows Advanced Server for Lan Manager" at a developers conference.
Windows 3.0
Release Date: May 22, 1990
In 1990, Microsoft released its Windows 3.0 operating system, which featured more significant changes compared to previous versions. However, at this point, they still belonged to the graphical user interface of the MS-DOS operating system.
Through this version of the OS, it was already possible to make use of File Manager and Program ManagerFor the first time. Taking into account that, from this, one of the most important versions was designed (specifically, version 3.1, which we detail below).
Windows 3.1
Release Date: April 06, 1992
With the release of version 3.0, the design and development of Microsoft Windows 3.1 began, which was originally codenamed “Janus.” This version featured the TrueType font system, categorized as a set of highly legible fonts. Windows was considered a viable platform, for the first time and also worthy of being an operating system independent of Microsoft DOS.
In this respect, Windows 3.1 showed great success due to its use of TrueType fonts and, in addition, because other highly relevant graphic additionsTherefore, Windows It managed to outperform IBM's operating system in terms of sales, and the design of a new update called "Windows 3.11" was initiated, which had even more sales.
Windows 95
Release Date: August 24, 1995
Initially, this version of Windows was known by the codename Chicago and was completely consumer-orientedGiven that it was an operating system designed to have support for preemptive multitasking, one of its biggest changes was evident in the 32-bit code.
However, Chicago left some parts of the code in 16 bits, but without directly using real mode due to performance, compatibility, and development time considerations. However, shortly before its release, they decided to name the version as “Windows 95” and it exhibited three advantages of great interest:
- It was not possible to run this OS on non-Microsoft versions of DOS. In other words, It was only accepted in MS-DOS.
- This only ran on 386 in enhanced mode, with virtual memory and a 32-bit address space. Therefore, it could even have 2 GB of virtual RAM.
- It added the Start menu and the taskbar, just like the included Internet support.
Windows 98
Release date: June 25, 1998
Starting with this version of the operating system, excellent graphical improvements were made, which were much more noticeable than in older versions. It also stood out for... Including a DVD drive and a USB portTaking into account that, at this point, the software and hardware requirements were becoming increasingly demanding.
However, due to some errors caused by the Internet Explorer browser, the company decided to release a second version of Windows 98, but in 1999. This version operated under the name “Windows 98 Second Edition” And in addition to eliminating these errors, it had the ability to allow multiple computers to connect to the same internet connection, simultaneously.
It should be noted that the Windows 98 version was only supported by Microsoft. until July 2006That is, for a total of eight years.
Windows 2000
Release date: February 17, 2000
During this year, users began purchasing the full version of Windows 2000. Which, It was based on NT technology from one of the versions from years ago and was considered a more sophisticated operating system.
Following that, specifically on September 14th of the same year, a new version was launched on the market called “Windows Millennium Edition” and just a few days later, on September 29, it was published “Windows 2000 Datacenter Server” which was a version with support for 32 processors and thus, was aimed at large computing systems.
Windows XP
Release date: October 25, 2001
Just one year later, Windows XP was released, which remains one of the most recognized versions to this day. It marked a major shift for Microsoft with Windows due to its extraordinary graphical improvements. greater agility and a significant increase in speed.
In addition to this, Windows XP is characterized by being Microsoft's first operating system to add a 64-bit versionIt also incorporated excellent features such as system file encryption, remote assistance, WiFi network support, and in view of this and many other features, it was able to make a big splash in the operating system market worldwide.
Windows Vista
Release date: January 30 of 2007
Six years passed before a new official version of Microsoft Windows was released. Its development process concluded on November 08, 2006. It was put on sale in volume licensing for large companies November 30, 2006. However, it was not released to the general public until 2007.
Among its most interesting features, we highlight that this version could be obtained directly from the Microsoft website, where its purchase and download were facilitated. In which, Graphical improvements were added and the upgrade system to higher versions with Windows Anytime Upgrade. However, it wasn't the most successful OS, as it's even considered one of the worst failures of the technology company.
This failure resulted from the large number of errors in the interface, despite the company's high expectations. Ultimately, it only served as the operating system. slowest and the one who suffered the most from overloads.
Windows 7
Release date: October 22, 2009
Although its development was completed on July 22, 2009, it wasn't released until October of that same year. This development took two years after the Vista version and through it, Microsoft wanted to correct all the bad things its predecessor had shown..
For this reason, with Windows 7 it was possible to obtain an operating system with much greater efficiency and excellent improvements in terms of security, performance, and the most important system requirementsIn addition, it is a Windows proposal that is fully adaptable for use on systems with touch screens.
Among other noteworthy details, this version also included improved consumer support. This was done to address the most common operating system problems and It also showcased a new taskbar design along with a more elegant icon system. and, ultimately, a better interface.
Windows 8
Release date: October 26, 2012
Three years later, the company released its version of Windows 8, which launched alongside the latest edition of the Windows Server operating system. Among its main and most interesting features, we find that Windows It added support for ARM microprocessorsFor the first time. In addition to traditional x86 microprocessors from AMD and Intel.
Regarding its user interface, it was modified in order to adapt it more for use on touch screens And of course, it's also compatible with traditional keyboard and mouse systems. This is because it's designed to be a universal operating system, independent of the platform on which it's installed.
However, it had some changes compared to its predecessor, Windows 7. Specifically, the Aero Glass effect was no longer present in the operating system, because It was replaced by new flat effects. with a simple color for windows and buttons.
Windows 10
Release Date: July 29, 2015
To date, this is the latest version released by Microsoft Windows. It is an operating system characterized by... provide support for PCs, laptops, and mobile devices, so it has several versions within itself, and they are:
- Windows 10 Home
- Windows 10 Pro
- 10 Windows Enterprise
- Windows 10 Education
- Windows 10 Mobile (for cell phones)
- Windows 10 S (for lower-power touch devices, such as tablets)
- Windows 10 IoT Core
- Windows 10 Pro for Workstations (for higher potential computers or workstations).
Thus, it is the newest version of Windows to feature a Start menu with the Modern UI interface combined with that of Windows 7. In addition, it includes a notification center, multiple desktops, and displays changes to some system icons. even a bug reporting appAdditionally, it supports a touch mode and features optimized multitasking.
What will the next version of Windows be, and what can we expect from it?
According to some unofficial sources, Windows 10 is estimated to reach its end of life on October 14, 2025. Because, It has extended support until that date. While its standard support will end on October 13, 2020. Therefore, around 2018, it was known that Will there be a Windows 11 in the short term?.
Of course, the vast majority of users expect Microsoft to make profound changes in this version. Whether it's optimizing the entire process it currently handles in the operating system, or even modifying its strategy when it comes to... “a final version of Windows”.
So, regardless of the development model the company uses, it is believed that Windows 11 will need to address certain issues. regarding the user interface...by including some curved designs and a start menu that could feature optional tiles and smart animations.
In other words, it should exhibit a truly consistent design, and additionally, some experts have noted that it would be crucial for it to have a redesigned search, adaptive cursors, and a dark mode (as many platforms already do).
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