Windowsoperativsystemerne

Windows operating system refers to a family of graphical operating systems developed by Microsoft. First released in 1985 as a GUI shell for MS-DOS, it evolved into a standalone platform and became one of the most widely used desktop operating systems. Windows provides a layered architecture with a kernel, device drivers, a system service layer, and the user interface. It supports multitasking, memory management, security features, networking, and a broad ecosystem of applications.

Key milestones include Windows 95, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8/8.1, Windows 10, and Windows 11. Windows 10 introduced as a service with continuous updates; Windows 11 emphasizes a refreshed UI, optimized performance, and tighter hardware requirements. The Windows family includes client editions for general users and enterprise variants for business use, such as Windows Enterprise and Windows Pro, as well as server editions in the Windows Server line.

Windows runs on x86-64 and formerly IA-64 architectures, with ongoing support for ARM via Windows on ARM and Windows 10/11 on ARM. The interface traditionally uses a desktop metaphor with a taskbar, Start menu, and windows-based applications; software compatibility is supported through a large base of legacy software as well as modern UWP and classic Win32 apps.

The ecosystem includes Microsoft Store for distribution, Windows Update for system maintenance, Defender for security, and integration with Microsoft services. Reception has varied by version, with periods of criticism over interface changes and feature bloat, followed by stabilization and ongoing feature updates in recent releases.