1. Windows 1.0 – 3.x (1985-1992):
Windows 1.0 was the first graphical user interface (GUI) based operating system released by Microsoft in 1985.
Windows 2.0 introduced features like overlapping windows and improved graphics support.
Windows 3.0 and its subsequent versions (3.1, 3.11) became widely popular and established Windows as a dominant platform for personal computing.
2. Windows 95/98/ME (1995-2000):
Windows 95 introduced the Start menu, taskbar, and Plug and Play support, revolutionizing the user interface.
Windows 98 and Windows ME (Millennium Edition) followed with improvements in stability, performance, and multimedia capabilities.
3. Windows NT Family (1993-present):
Windows NT was a separate line of operating systems designed for businesses and high-end users, featuring improved security and stability compared to the consumer-oriented versions.
Windows NT 4.0 was released in 1996, followed by Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8/8.1, and Windows 10.
4. Windows XP (2001-2007):
Windows XP was one of the most widely used versions of Windows, known for its stability, performance, and user-friendly interface.
5. Windows Vista (2006-2009):
Windows Vista introduced a redesigned user interface, improved security features, and enhanced multimedia capabilities, but faced criticism for its performance and compatibility issues.
6. Windows 7 (2009-2020):
Windows 7 was praised for its improved performance, stability, and user interface refinements, becoming one of the most popular versions of Windows.
7. Windows 8/8.1 (2012-2023):
Windows 8 introduced a touch-optimized interface and integration with online services, but faced criticism for its radical departure from the traditional desktop experience.
Windows 8.1 addressed some of the criticisms and brought back familiar features like the Start button.
Windows 10 (2015-present):
8. Windows 10 is the latest version of Windows, featuring a unified platform across desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
It introduces features like Cortana (digital assistant), the Microsoft Edge browser, virtual desktops, and continuous updates through the Windows as a Service (WaaS) model.
Windows 10 is unique in its approach to updates, with Microsoft moving towards a “Windows as a Service” model, where updates are delivered regularly rather than through major version releases.
It has seen several major updates, including the Anniversary Update, Creators Update, Fall Creators Update, April 2018 Update, October 2018 Update, May 2019 Update, November 2019 Update, May 2020 Update, October 2020 Update, May 2021 Update, October 2021 Update, and more.
Windows 10 is known for its focus on productivity, security, and compatibility across various devices, including desktops, laptops, tablets, and hybrid devices.
9. Windows 11 (2021-present):
Windows 11 is the latest version of the Windows operating system, announced by Microsoft in June 2021 and officially released in October 2021.
It introduces a redesigned user interface with centered Start menu, new window management features like Snap Layouts and Snap Groups, improved gaming capabilities with DirectStorage and Auto HDR, and enhanced performance and security features.
Windows 11 is designed to provide a more modern and streamlined user experience while maintaining compatibility with existing Windows applications and hardware.
Windows continues to evolve, with Microsoft focusing on innovation, user experience, and security to meet the changing needs of users and businesses in the digital age.
