Microsoft Windows is the most popular operating system in the world. However, Windows started out as a graphical user interface add-on for MS-DOS. Over the decades, Windows became a powerful and dominant operating system in its own right. Here is a quick look at the major milestones in the history of Windows.
Windows 1.0 launched in 1985.
It was Microsoft's first attempt at a graphical user interface for MS-DOS. Windows 1.0 was very limited and only had a few applications. It was not very successful as most users still preferred the text-based MS-DOS interface.
Windows 2.0 released in 1987.
This version added overlapping windows, keyboard shortcuts and improved graphics support. It gained more interest from software developers and consumers. However, it still had to be installed on top of MS-DOS.
Windows 3.0 launched in 1990.
This was the first commercially successful version of Windows. It had improved reliability and speed, as well as new features like virtual memory, VGA support and desktop icons. Windows 3.0 helped Microsoft gain market share against Apple's Macintosh operating system.
Windows 3.1 released in 1992.
This version included bug fixes, improved performance and networking capabilities. It became the most popular operating system in the early 1990s with over 10 million copies sold worldwide. Windows 3.1 highlighted the growing popularity of Microsoft's 32-bit operating systems.
Windows 95 launched in 1995.
This was Microsoft's first 32-bit version of Windows with a brand new user interface. It integrated MS-DOS, could multitask and included Internet Explorer 1.0. Windows 95 was a major commercial success, selling over 40 million copies in its first year. It cemented Microsoft's dominance in the operating system market.
Windows XP released in 2001.
This version introduced a redesigned interface and more stable, reliable computing. It was Microsoft's first consumer-oriented operating system built on the Windows NT kernel. Windows XP became one of the longest-supported operating systems, with extended support ending in 2014. At its peak, over 400 million PCs ran Windows XP, highlighting its popularity.
Windows Vista launched in 2007.
This version aimed to improve security and network. However, it was heavily criticized for performance issues, software incompatibilities and outdated hardware drivers. As a result, many consumers chose to remain with Windows XP instead of upgrading to Vista.
Windows 7 released in 2009. This version addressed the major criticisms of Vista, with improved performance, compatibility, and simplified interface. Windows 7 was very popular, becoming Microsoft's fastest selling operating system. By early 2016, Windows 7 was still the most widely used Windows version, running on over 35% of all Windows PCs.
Today, Microsoft's latest operating systems are Windows 10, released in 2015, and Windows Server 2016. The future looks bright for Windows as it continues to dominate both the consumer and enterprise markets. Windows has come a long way from its modest beginnings as an add-on for MS-DOS. With over 90% of the operating system market share worldwide, the Windows empire is stronger than ever.