List of Microsoft Windows versions in order from 1.0 to Win 11

The Windows operating system needs no separate introduction as it is a household name by now. The vision of college dropout Bill Gates and Paul Allen just revolutionized the way computers were thought of before and also laid the groundbreaking groundwork for generations to come. It was the Windows operating system that made computers available in almost every second for the third household, otherwise, it was a centerpiece of laboratories or offices. An easy to use interface and a friendlier environment only added fuel to the fire and the rest is history. Today, there are many operating systems, such as – macOS, Linux, etc. But Windows remains one of the most sought after and cosmopolitan. Now let’s take a look at the journey of the Windows operating system from the beginning until now.

Microsoft Windows operating system version history

Windows 1.0

It was launched in 1985let’s take a look at its features:

1. Windows 1.0 binary programs can be run and their source codes recompiled with restricted modifications.
2. Notepad, paint, calculator, etc. are some of the apps that were included in it.
3. The minimum memory size required by this operating system was only 256 kilobytes.
4. Drivers for mouse, keyboard, printers, etc. were included there.
5. It has been referred to as an MS-DOS front end.

Windows 2.0

It was launched in 1987let’s take a look at its features:

1. The features of “Reduce” and “Enlarge” have been introduced here.
2. Various hotkeys have been included here.
3. He gave us the “Control Panel”.
4. VGA graphics (limited to 16 colors) were introduced here.
5. It defined the launching of MS Word, Excel, etc.

Windows 3.1

It was launched in 1992let’s explore its features:

1. It marked the beginning of built-in audio and video playback support.
2. Color screensavers were introduced.
3. It supported tons of third-party software.
4. Many fonts were supported here.

Windows NT

It was launched in 1993let us have an overview of its features:

1. Sophisticated interface consisting of start button, taskbar explorer, etc. welcomed users.
2. It supported up to 15 network protocols.
3. NetWare client and login script were supported there.
4. Microsoft Schedule+ and Microsoft Exchange were introduced here.
5. The User ID and Password features were launched there.

Windows 95

It was launched in 1997let’s take a look at its attributes:

1. The system could function without MS-DOS, for the first time since the beginnings of Windows.
2. A desktop feature was introduced, and it could be used to store different applications like – My Computer, Recycle Bin, etc.
3. The function of right-clicking on an object to edit, copy, paste, etc. marked his debut.
4. A new taskbar and start menu have been launched here.

Windows 98

It was launched in 1999let’s review some of its features:

1. Added Internet-based tools, such as – Internet Explorer 4.0.1, Outlook Express, Windows Address Book, etc.
2. The Windows Driver Model (WDM) was launched here.
3. The System File Checker debuted, a tool that fixes lost files.
4. FAT 32 file system was supported here.

Windows ME and 2000

It was launched in 2000let’s explore its features:

1. System restore tool introduced.
2. It supported automatic Windows updates.
3. The WIA or Windows Image Acquisition feature allowed the operating system to integrate with multimedia devices.
4. Windows Movie Maker was introduced here.

Windows XP

It was launched in 2001let’s explore its attributes:

1. It introduced a new feature called Remote Support, which helped help desks resolve issues remotely.
2. Remote desktop was another good feature.
3. An internet connection firewall has been introduced here.
4. Device driver rollback for managing driver updates was included in it.
5. A CD burner for copying and pasting items into CDs has been launched here.

Windows Vista

It was launched in 2007let us explore it:

1. It supported Windows mail.
2. It launched Windows Calendar and Photo Gallery.
3. Windows Media Player was its part.
4. It included a backup and restore option.

Windows 7

It was launched in 2009let’s review some of its attributes:

1. The taskbar has been modified here.
2. The jumplist feature was launched here.
3. A revamped system tray has been included here.
4. A redesigned taskbar to make your job easier.

Windows 8

It was launched in 2012let us have an overview of its features:

1. The time required to boot this operating system was less than its previous counterparts.
2. The desktop has been changed for good and added to its looks and ease of working.
3. An innovative search function is not physically present but appears as soon as you start typing.
4. Windows Live synchronization was introduced here.

Windows 8.1

It was launched in 2013let’s look at its attributes:

1. It allowed users to set default apps for options like – email, web browser, music player etc.
2. The start button has been reintroduced, but it is more innovative.
3. The home screen can be customized to a great extent.
4. The auto-update feature of the app has been introduced here.

Windows 10

It was launched in 2015let us explore it:

1. The start menu now includes most of the applications important and used by users.
2. Microsoft Edge internet browser shown here.
3. Cortana, your virtual assistant has made its debut.
4. If your system supports touchscreen, you can switch to tablet mode.

Windows 11

It is launched in 2021let’s take a look at its features:

1. You’ll get an overall feel of Apple’s macOS.
2. Android apps can be installed through the Microsoft store.
3. Widgets are accessible directly from the taskbar and also personalized.
4. Xbox features are integrated here to give you an intense gaming experience.
5. More relevant virtual desktop support.

FAQs

• What is Windows in simple terms?

Windows is an operating system designed by Microsoft to help you use your computer.

• What is an operating system?

An operating system or operating system is software that manages hardware and allows all programs to run precisely.

• What are the types of Windows in a computer?

There are many versions of Windows launched by Microsoft including – Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows Me and many more.

• What is the best version of Windows?

It depends from user to user but usually the latest version comes with latest innovative updates.