Evolution of Windows

How Windows Evolved Through the Years:

Starting with MS-DOS, then, (GUI Graphical User Interface) Windows 1.0, 2.0, 2.11, 3.0, NT…

Windows 95 had built-in Internet support, dial-up networking, and new Plug and Play capabilities that make it easy to install hardware and software. The 32-bit operating system also offered enhanced multimedia capabilities, more powerful features for mobile computing, and integrated networking.

Windows 98 found information more easily on your PC as well as the Internet. Other improvements include the ability to open and close programs more quickly, and support for reading DVD discs and universal serial bus (USB) devices.   First appearance of the Quick Launch bar.

Windows XP offered such enhancements as the Network Setup Wizard, Windows Media Player, Windows Movie Maker, and enhanced digital photo capabilities.

Windows Vista featured enhancements to Windows Media Player as more and more people come to see their PCs as central locations for digital media. Here you can watch television, view and send photographs, and edit videos.

Windows 7 was released for the wireless world of the late 2000s.  Laptops are outselling desktops, and it had become common to connect to public wireless hot spots in coffee shops and private networks in the home.  It also marks the debut of Windows Touch, which lets touchscreen users browse the web, flip through photos, and open files and folders.

Windows 8 was a re-imagined operating system introduced a totally new interface that works smoothly for both touch and mouse and keyboard. It functions as both a tablet for entertainment and a full-featured PC for getting things done. Windows 8 featured a Start screen with tiles that connect to people, files, apps, and websites (although many users were unhappy with the absence of the Start button).   Apps were accessed through the new Windows Store—built right in to the Start screen.  Windows 8 came with a built-in version of Office optimized for touchscreens.  Microsoft also launched Windows RT, which runs on some tablets and PCs.  RT exclusively ran apps from the Windows Store.

Windows 8.1 On popular demand, return of the Start button.  Also, provided a more powerful collection of apps and cloud connectivity.

Windows 10 is the first time a Windows upgrade is offered free to customers. The operating system delivers an upgraded Windows interface, focusing, on popular demand, includes the Start button. It will allow you to access apps, contacts and websites.  Windows 10 also introduces Cortana, the first digital personal assistant from Microsoft which has improved to a new Microsoft voice that’s more conversational and approachable than before.  Snap enhancement allows you to “snap” four apps (not just two).  Multiple desktops, Linux users have been used to working with multiple desktops for ages, now Windows users no longer have to rely on third-party desktop managers.  Task View button  that allows you to switch between open files and desktops.  Search Web provides search results directly from the web using the search menu.  Microsoft Edge is the new web browser replacing Internet Explorer.  Smartphone and other Mobile Devices allow Windows 10 installation.  Lastly, OneDrive is part of Windows 10 providing a file hosting service that allows users to sync files and later access them from a web browser or mobile device; users can share files publicly or with their contacts.