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Windows 1.0
The original version of Microsoft Windows, which was announced in 1983 and introduced in 1985. Windows 1.0 was a DOS application that provided a rather awkward graphical interface and windowing environment. Its "MS-DOS Executive" was the launching pad for applications that were displayed in side-by-side windows that could not be overlapped with each other.
Windows 1.0 included a clipboard, calendar, clock, control panel, Notepad editor, Windows Write and Windows Paint. -
Windows 2.0
An upgrade to Windows 1.0, introduced in 1987. Supporting overlapping, resizable windows and more color options, it was later renamed Windows/286 after Windows/386 was released. Windows 2.0 was still very DOS oriented. -
Windows 3.0
The version of Windows that "put Windows on the map." Introduced in 1990, Windows 3.0 replaced the clunky MS-DOS Executive in Windows 2.0 and Windows/386 with a colorful and functional user interface comprising Program Manager and File Manager. It could also run multitask older DOS programs in a different environment. -
Windows 95
Being a complete overhaul of Windows compared to it's predecessors, it was the first version of Windows that didn't need DOS to download and to have a taskbar. It also had access to dial-up internet and supported long file names. -
Windows 98
It was the retail upgrade to Windows 95 that provided support for reading DVDs and using USB devices. Applications in Windows 98 opened and closed more quickly. -
Windows 2000
Windows 2000 added many of the features that NT 4.0 didn’t have such as a disk defragmenter, device manager, and Plug and Play support. -
Windows XP
It is the first consumer OS based on the NT code, which makes it the most stable and secure Microsoft consumer OS to date. Home Edition supports the Internet Connection Firewall (ICF), which protects your computer while you are connected to the Internet. It also features Fast User Switching, which allows you to switch between users’ desktops without having to log off first. -
Windows Vista
Vista included many changes and added new features such as the updated graphical user interface\visual style called Windows Aero. It also featured redesigned print, audio, networking, and display subsystems. It also offers improved security, easier networking, better organization and new multimedia capabilities. -
Windows 7
Windows 7 has more efficient ways to manage files and improved taskbar previews. It also faster startup time and runs programs faster than Vista although it still requires a higher end hardware to run up to its potential.Windows 7 comes in a many editions including Starter, Home Premium, Professional, Ultimate and Enterprise each with its own set of features which allows you to choose the edition you need based on pricing and what you plan to do with the operating system. -
Windows 8
With Windows 8, came new devices such as tablets that could easily be converted into laptops and desktops with tablet like interfaces and features.Windows 8 is a big change from Windows 7 and the standard interface that everyone was used to. Many people were turned off by this new interface while others embraced it. Windows 8.1 fixed some of the things people didn't like but the OS never gained the popularity Microsoft wanted.
