MicroSoft Windows Operating System Versions Evolution List

Sure! Here’s a detailed list of the evolution of Microsoft Windows versions:

Early Versions

1. Windows 1.0 (1985)
   • First graphical user interface (GUI) for IBM PCs.
   • Introduced mouse support and basic applications like Paint and Notepad.
2. Windows 2.0 (1987)
   • Enhanced graphics and overlapping windows.
   • Introduced support for desktop icons and expanded memory.
3. Windows 3.0 (1990)
   • Improved GUI and better performance.
   • Included Program Manager and File Manager.
4. Windows 3.1 (1992)
   • Enhanced multimedia capabilities and TrueType fonts.
   • Introduced Minesweeper and improved stability.

Other Link :

• A To Z Computer Related Full Form
• Computer Shortcut Keys
• How to Starting and Shutting Down a Computer
• Evolution of Computer
• Window Accessories

Windows 9x Series

5. Windows 95 (1995)
   • Major GUI overhaul with Start Menu and taskbar.
   • Introduced Plug and Play hardware support and long file names.
6. Windows 98 (1998)
   • Improved Internet integration with Internet Explorer 4.
   • Added support for USB devices and WebTV.
7. Windows 98 SE (1999)
   • Bug fixes and minor improvements over Windows 98.
   • Included Internet Connection Sharing.
8. Windows ME (2000)
   • Focused on home users with multimedia features.
   • Introduced System Restore and Windows Movie Maker.

Windows NT Series

9. Windows NT 3.1 (1993)
   • First version of the Windows NT family, targeting business users.
   • Offered 32-bit multitasking.
10. Windows NT 3.5 (1994)
    • Improved performance and networking features.
    • Introduced the NTFS file system.
11. Windows NT 4.0 (1996)
    • GUI similar to Windows 95.
    • Enhanced security and stability.

Windows 2000 and XP

12. Windows 2000 (2000)
    • Targeted business users with enhanced security and stability.
    • Introduced Active Directory and support for new hardware standards.
13. Windows XP (2001)
    • Unified the consumer and business lines.
    • Introduced a more user-friendly interface and improved performance.
    • Included multiple editions like Home, Professional, Media Center, and Tablet PC.

Windows Vista and 7

14. Windows Vista (2007)
    • Major graphical overhaul with Aero interface.
    • Introduced new security features like User Account Control.
    • Initially criticized for performance issues.
15. Windows 7 (2009)
    • Improved performance and user experience.
    • Enhanced taskbar and window management features.
    • Widely regarded as one of the best Windows versions.

Windows 8 and 10

16. Windows 8 (2012)
    • Introduced the Start screen and tile-based Modern UI.
    • Designed for touch devices but received mixed reactions.
    • Removed the Start Menu.
17. Windows 8.1 (2013)
    • Addressed user feedback from Windows 8.
    • Reintroduced the Start button and improved the Start screen.
18. Windows 10 (2015)
    • Combined elements of Windows 7 and 8 for a unified experience.
    • Introduced the Cortana digital assistant and new Edge browser.
    • Offered as a free upgrade for a limited time and focused on regular updates.

Windows 11

19. Windows 11 (2021)
    • Redesigned Start Menu and taskbar.
    • Improved support for virtual desktops and gaming.
    • New system requirements, including TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot.