History of Windows

Microsoft Windows was announced

Nov 10, 1983

Windows 3.0

May 22, 1990

This version improved performance, advanced graphics with 16 colors, and full support of the more powerful Intel 386 processor.
Program Manager, File Manager, and Print Manager
Windows Icons

Windows NT 3.1

Jul 27, 1993

The 1st OS to combine support for high-end client/server business applications with personal productivity applications. Was available for desktop and server (Windows NT advanced server).

Windows 95

Aug 24, 1995

This OS was the successor to the previous desktop OS's. This version integrated a 32-bit TCP/IP stack for built in internet support., dial up networking & and plug and play capabilities which made it easier to install software and hardware for the end users.
Enhanced multimedia capabilities were also added.

Windows NT Workstation 4.0

Aug 24, 1996

This OS was for the business desktop OS, it brought ease of use and simplified management, higher network throughput, and tools for managing & developing intranets. This OS included the Windows 95 user interface, but it improved upon networking support for easier and more secure access to intranets and the internet.

Windows 98

Jun 25, 1998

This OS used Windows 95 and upgraded it greatly. This was the first OS that was specifically designed for consumers, and quoted "works better, plays better".
Users could easily find files on their PC as well as on the internet.
Other improvements were: open/close applications more quickly, support for reading DVD discs, and support for USB devices.

Windows 2000 Professional

Feb 17, 2000

Not only to replace windows NT Workstation 4.0, this OS was also designed to replace Windows 98 and previous OS's on all business desktops and laptops. Built on top of the proven Windows NT Workstation 4.0 code base, This OS added improvements in reliability, ease of use, Internet compatibility, and support for mobile computing.
Also, simplified hardware installation by adding support for a wide variety of new Plug and Play hardware, including advanced networking & wireless products, USB devices

Windows ME

Sep 14, 2000

Designed for home computer users, this OS offered consumers music, video, and home networking enhancements and reliability improvements.
System restore, Windows Movie Maker, Microsoft Windows Media Player.
This was the last OS to be based on the Windows 95 code base.

Windows XP Home & Professional

Oct 21, 2001

New OS with a new design with new security and reliability upgrades. Includes features for business and advanced home computing, including remote desktop support, an encrypting file system, and system restore and advanced networking features. Key enhancements for mobile users include wireless 802.1x networking support, Windows Messenger, and Remote Assistance.
Windows XP Home Edition offers a clean, simplified visual design that makes frequently used features more accessible.

Windows Vista

Jan 30, 2007

New design, competing with Apples designs.
This OS is intended to have enhanced security by introducing a new restricted user mode called User Account Control, replacing the "administrator-by-default" philosophy of Windows XP.

Windows 7

Oct 22, 2009

Windows 7 is the current major release after Windows Vista and was planned for a three-year development timeframe. It was previously known by the code-names Blackcomb and Vienna. It used Windows Vista and tuned it up and fixed all of the bugs.