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Microsoft Windows
Microsoft Windows: Microsoft Windows is a collection of different computer systems made by Microsoft. They’re used in various parts of the computer world. For many Government exams, knowing about MS Windows is essential, as it’s a key topic in Computer Awareness. Microsoft Windows islike the brain of your computer, helping it work smoothly. With Windows, you can do lots of things like organize files, browse the internet, play music and games, and use different apps. It’s used on many types of devices like computers, laptops, tablets, and servers.
In this article, we’ll talk about the history and growth of Windows, its versions, how it works, its applications, and some key commands.
Microsoft Windows Introduction
Below is a quick overview of MS Windows that you should keep in mind:
- Developer: Microsoft
- First Release: November 20, 1985
- Language Availability: Supports 138 languages
- Default User Interface: Windows Shell
- Official Website: microsoft.com
What is Microsoft Windows Operating System?
The Windows Operating System, created by Microsoft, is like the brain of a computer. It manages all the computer’s activities, such as running programs, managing files, and handling input and output. It provides a visual interface, known as the Graphical User Interface (GUI), which allows users to interact with the computer using icons, windows, and menus rather than typing commands. Windows 10 is the latest version of this operating system, offering various features and improvements over previous versions. It’s widely used worldwide because of its user-friendly interface and compatibility with a wide range of software and hardware.
Microsoft Windows History
In 1983, Microsoft began working on “Interface Manager,” which later became the basis for Windows operating systems. However, it wasn’t until November 1995 that the first version, Windows 1.0, was officially released. Over time, as technology advanced and people demanded more user-friendly interfaces, Microsoft continued to develop and release updated versions of its operating systems. The table below illustrates the different Microsoft Windows operating systems and the years they were introduced.
| Microsoft Windows Operating System | Year Introduced |
|---|---|
| Windows 1.0 | 1995 |
| Windows 2.0 | 1987 |
| Windows 3.0 | 1990 |
| Windows 95 | 1995 |
| Windows 98 | 1998 |
| Windows 2000 | 2000 |
| Windows XP | 2001 |
| Windows Vista | 2007 |
| Windows 7 | 2009 |
| Windows 8 | 2012 |
| Windows 10 | 2015 |
Microsoft Windows Versions of Operating System
The table below outlines the various versions of the Windows Operating System along with their release dates and key features. Starting from Windows 1.0 to Windows 10, each version introduced new functionalities and improvements, catering to the evolving needs of users. From the basic GUI of Windows 1.0 to the advanced features like virtual desktops and improved security of Windows 10, each version contributed to the evolution of the Windows OS.
| Microsoft Windows Operating System Version | Release Date | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Windows 1.0 | November 20, 1985 | – Basic Operating Environment – Graphical User Interface – Limited multitasking |
| Windows 2.0 | December 9, 1987 | – 16-bit Graphic User Interface (GUI) – Introduction of Control Panel – First version of MS Word and Excel – Allowed applications to overlap – Did not require a hard disk |
| Windows 3.0 | 1990 | – Improved multitasking – Used 8086 microprocessors – Conventional and extendable memory – Received critical appreciation |
| Windows 95 | August 15, 1995 | – First complete Operating System – Merged MS-DOS and Windows products – Introduced Taskbar and Start menu – Advanced to 32-bit GUI – Enabled long file names |
| Windows 98 | May 15, 1998 | – Based on MS DOS – Tuned-up version of Windows 95 – Released with Internet Explorer 4.01 – Did not support USB printers or mass storage devices |
| Windows 2000 | February 17, 2000 | – Released in 4 editions targeting different markets – Considered highly secure – Introduced local disk manager – Supported Multilingual User Interface |
| Windows XP | October 25, 2001 | – Advanced portable PC support – Automatic wireless connection support – Faster start-up – Enhanced GUI – Help and support centre |
| Windows Vista | January 30, 2007 | – Upgraded GUI – Used DVD-ROM for installation |
| Windows 7 | October 22, 2009 | – Introduced new features – Redesigned Windows shell and taskbar – Incremental upgrade – Extended hardware support |
| Windows 8 | October 26, 2012 | – Optimized for touch-based devices – Integrated with cloud services – Introduced Windows Store – Redesigned task manager – New security features |
| Windows 10 | July 29, 2015 | – Addressed UI shortcomings of Windows 8 – Introduced virtual desktop system – Enabled running Windows store apps within windows – New icons – Automatic file compression to reduce storage usage |
Microsoft Windows Applications
Microsoft Windows provides various applications for different purposes, catering to both personal and professional needs. These applications are available for download from the Windows store. They include web browsers for internet browsing, software like Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Reader for image and document editing respectively, messenger applications for communication, media players for audio and video playback, games for entertainment, and audio/video chatting apps for real-time communication. Additionally, there are applications for maps and calendar management, among others.
| Microsoft Windows Applications |
|---|
| Web Browsers |
| Adobe Photoshop |
| Adobe Reader |
| Messenger |
| Media Players |
| Games |
| Audio/Video Chatting Apps |
| Maps & Calendar |
Microsoft Windows List of Important Commands
Computers operate using commands that are entered as input, which can now be done through various hardware devices due to advancements in operating systems. The provided list includes important MS-DOS Windows commands for reference. While these commands may not be directly used by users, they are inputted into the computer via hardware devices. Understanding these commands can help in learning about the history and development of Windows and operating systems, which could be beneficial for upcoming examinations.
| Microsoft Windows Important Commands | Description |
|---|---|
| cd | Change directory |
| cls | Clear window |
| dir | Display list of contents |
| notepad | Windows notepad text editor |
| type | Displays content of text file |
| assoc | Display/modify file extensions |
| attrib | Displays/change file attributes |
| call | Calls one batch program file from another |
| color | Set text and background colour |
| comp | Compares the contents of two files |
| copy | Copy one or more files to another location |
| date | Displays date |
| del | Delete multiple files |
| edit | Run MS-DOS text editor |
| exit | Close MS-DOS window |
| find | Search for a text string in a file |
| move | Move one or more files to another location |
MS Windows Sample Questions and Answers
Computer knowledge is crucial for various government sector job exams. Below are some sample questions based on Microsoft Windows, similar to those asked in competitive exams. These questions will help candidates understand the question patterns and types.
1. When was Windows 8 released?
- a) 2009
- b) 2008
- c) 2012
- d) 2013
- e) 2010
Answer: (c) 2012
2. What does the ‘U’ stand for in ‘GUI’?
- a) Unified
- b) Unfiltered
- c) User
- d) Utility
- e) Utilisation
Answer: (c) User
3. What is the maximum size of a Word document created in Windows?
- a) 1 MB
- b) 16 MB
- c) 62 MB
- d) 1 GB
- e) 32 MB
Answer: (e) 32 MB
4. How many function keys are there on a keyboard?
- a) 15
- b) 13
- c) 11
- d) 12
- e) 10
Answer: (d) 12
5. Which of the following Windows versions does not have a start button?
- a) Windows 7
- b) Windows XP
- c) Windows Vista
- d) Windows 8
- e) Windows 8.1
Answer: (d) Windows 8
6. What is the primary function of the Windows Task Manager?
- a) Installing software
- b) Monitoring system performance
- c) Organizing files and folders
- d) Creating user accounts
- e) Playing media files
Answer: (b) Monitoring system performance
7. Which Windows feature allows you to restore your computer to a previous state?
- a) Control Panel
- b) Task Scheduler
- c) System Restore
- d) Disk Cleanup
- e) Device Manager
Answer: (c) System Restore
8. Which keyboard shortcut is used to cut selected text or files in Windows?
- a) Ctrl + X
- b) Ctrl + C
- c) Ctrl + V
- d) Alt + X
- e) Alt + C
Answer: (a) Ctrl + X
9. What is the default web browser in Windows 10?
- a) Mozilla Firefox
- b) Google Chrome
- c) Microsoft Edge
- d) Internet Explorer
- e) Opera
Answer: (c) Microsoft Edge
10. Which of the following file formats is commonly used for compressed files in Windows?
- a) .exe
- b) .zip
- c) .docx
- d) .mp3
- e) .jpg
Answer: (b) .zip
These questions serve as a reference for candidates to prepare for the exam section on MS Windows. While the questions may seem basic, they can be tricky, so candidates should be well-prepared to excel in this section.
Microsoft Windows Important Takeaways
Microsoft Windows is like the control center of your computer, making everything work smoothly. By learning about its main features and how to use them, you can make your computer experience much easier. From organizing files to staying safe online, knowing the ins and outs of Windows can make a big difference in how you use your computer every day. Check below some important takeaways that will help you make the most of your Windows experience.
- Windows Operating System: Developed by Microsoft, Windows is a popular operating system known for its user-friendly interface.
- Versions: Windows has several versions like Windows 7, 8, 10, and the latest, Windows 11, each with new features and improvements.
- Graphical User Interface (GUI): Windows uses a visual interface with icons, windows, and menus, making it easy to navigate.
- Start Menu: Central feature for accessing programs, settings, and files, located at the bottom left of the screen.
- Taskbar and System Tray: Taskbar at the bottom provides quick access to applications, while the System Tray on the right displays notifications.
- File Management: File Explorer allows users to organize and manage files and folders.
- Keyboard Shortcuts: Windows offers shortcuts like Ctrl + C (copy) and Ctrl + V (paste) for quick tasks.
- System Tools: Includes utilities for disk management, troubleshooting, and maintenance.
- Security: Built-in features like Windows Defender antivirus and Firewall protect against threats.
- Updates and Support: Regular updates improve security and add new features, with support available from Microsoft’s website and customer service.
