History of Windows Operating System

An operating system is the collection of software that controls how the computer works.  If you have a PC or IBM format computer chances are pretty good that you are running a Windows Operating System from a company called Microsoft.  Windows Operating Systems have been around since th's and you should be familiar with some of the names and chronology of their development. Below is a diagram showing the basic development of the Windows operating system from 1990 to 2013. Windows Operating Systems 1990 Windows 3.x 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 Windows 95 1996 1997 1998 Windows 98 1999 2000 Windows Me 2001 Windows XP 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Windows Vista 2008 2009 Windows 7 2010 2011 2012 Windows 8 2013 The most recent Windows operating system has the unique feature of being designed to run on desktop computers, laptops, tablets (Microsoft Surface) and even smart phones. This concept could have many advantages in a technology world where the proliferation of different devices and operating systems can seem overwhelming. Unfortunately, this has required a fundamental shift in the user experience which resulted in a difficult backlash from many consumers. The result has been, "the biggest product U-turn since New Coke" and the release in late 2013 of Windows 8.1. You can watch a summary of the newest operating system fromCNET News featuring Steve Ballmer. Featured YouTube Video Microsoft Builds New Features into Windows 8.1  For nostalgia you can enjoy some old screenshots and learn a lot more about the Windows Operating Systems here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Microsoft_Windows

PRACTICE ACTIVITY:  See if you can name the operating system that's on your computer right now. TO KEEP ON LEARNING:  To find out more about the windows operating systems try searching the internet for: Windows operating systems Windows XP Pirates of Silicon Valley