The Basics of Windows

Windows is the operating system (OS) software that powers the computers that run the internet and most applications. It is a complex, multi-layered program that requires extensive computer memory and processor power to function properly. While there are several different versions of Windows, the current version is called Windows 11. It offers a variety of standard features that make it easy to use, including a search function, the ability to view and manage files on the computer, and the option to connect to multiple networks and devices.

The first version of Windows, released in 1985, was a graphical shell running on top of Microsoft’s existing disk operating system, MS-DOS. This version, based in part on licensed concepts that Apple Inc. used for its Macintosh System Software, allowed users to navigate a virtual desktop by opening graphical “windows” to display the contents of electronic folders and files instead of typing commands and file names at a text prompt.

Subsequent versions introduced a more sophisticated interface and enhanced application and memory management. Microsoft consolidated the various Windows packages into the universal Windows operating system with the 2001 release of Windows XP. This version replaced the previous NT kernel with one influenced by the Mach microkernel developed at Carnegie Mellon University, but not meeting all of its requirements.

With the release of Windows 8, Microsoft added support for touch-based devices with a new Start screen that displayed applications as tiles on a grid and the ability to synchronize settings across multiple computers. In 2015, the company released Windows 10, which included Cortana, a digital personal assistant similar to Apple’s Siri, and the Web browser Microsoft Edge that replaced Internet Explorer.

In addition to the desktop and Start screen, Windows includes a number of other applications that are designed for specific tasks or to work with particular hardware or software. These include word processing, media playback and editing, a calculator, e-mail, instant messaging, and other programs that have built-in features or are available through additional software installations.

The Windows OS requires activation by linking a Microsoft account to the PC to verify that it is an authorized copy and not being used on more than permitted by its license terms. It also uses an anti-virus and security software program, as well as a firewall to protect against malware and other threats.

The Windows operating system is the most common type of OS in use worldwide. It is installed by default on most PCs that are purchased from a manufacturer, such as Dell, HP or Lenovo. These manufacturers know that most people will purchase their products with Windows already installed, so they pre-buy a license for the operating system from Microsoft under a Windows OEM agreement and package it along with the hardware they sell. This helps reduce the overall cost of the PC to the customer, and it helps keep track of who is using which copies of Windows. Users who want to add support for other languages can download Language Interface Packs, which translate only the operating system’s user interface, or full Language Packs, which include translations for all aspects of the software, from the keyboard and mouse, to the applications.

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