The history of Microsoft Windows as a desktop operating system spans several decades, beginning in the mid-1980s. Below is an overview of its development:

Windows 1.x and 2.x (1985–1990)

• Windows 1.0 (1985):
  • Microsoft’s first graphical user interface (GUI) for PCs.
  • Operated as a layer on top of MS-DOS.
  • Featured tiled windows and basic programs like Calculator and Paint.
• Windows 2.0 (1987):
  • Introduced overlapping windows and desktop icons.
  • Supported expanded memory and better integration with applications like Microsoft Word and Excel.

Windows 3.x (1990–1994)

• Windows 3.0 (1990):
  • The first version to gain mainstream success.
  • Enhanced graphics and multitasking capabilities.
  • Included the Program Manager, File Manager, and Solitaire.
• Windows 3.1 (1992):
  • Added TrueType fonts, multimedia support, and drag-and-drop functionality.
  • Widely used in business environments.

Windows 95 (1995)

• A revolutionary update that introduced the Start menu, Taskbar, and Windows Explorer.
• Integrated MS-DOS and 32-bit support, making it more powerful for modern applications.
• Enabled plug-and-play hardware compatibility.

Windows 98 (1998) and Windows Me (2000)

• Windows 98:
  • Enhanced web integration with Internet Explorer.
  • Introduced the Quick Launch toolbar and USB device support.
• Windows Me (Millennium Edition):
  • Focused on home users with multimedia and system recovery tools but suffered from stability issues.

Windows NT and Windows 2000

• Windows NT (1993–1996):
  • Built as a robust, enterprise-grade OS.
  • Used for servers and professional workstations.
• Windows 2000 (2000):
  • Combined NT technology with a user-friendly GUI.
  • Became the basis for future Windows versions.

Windows XP (2001)

• Combined the home-oriented Windows 9x line with the NT kernel for stability.
• Introduced a colorful, user-friendly interface.
• Widely praised for reliability and support for a vast array of hardware.

Windows Vista (2006)

• Significant visual overhaul with the Aero interface and improved security features.
• Criticized for high system requirements and compatibility issues.

Windows 7 (2009)

• Built on the strengths of Windows Vista while improving performance and usability.
• Became one of the most popular Windows versions ever.

Windows 8 and 8.1 (2012–2013)

• Focused on a touch-first interface with the Start Screen and tile-based design.
• Introduced new apps but faced criticism for removing the Start menu.
• Windows 8.1: Reintroduced the Start button and refined usability.

Windows 10 (2015)

• Returned the Start menu in a hybrid format blending desktop and tablet features.
• Offered free upgrades to Windows 7 and 8 users.
• Regular updates introduced features like Cortana, Windows Hello, and the Microsoft Store.

Windows 11 (2021)

• Focused on a modernized design with rounded corners and a centered Start menu.
• Improved performance and multitasking with Snap Layouts and virtual desktops.
• Increased hardware requirements to ensure compatibility with newer technologies.

Impact on Computing

• Windows has dominated the desktop market for decades, influencing both home and enterprise computing.
• Its adaptability to different hardware configurations and user needs has solidified its position as a cornerstone of modern computing.