-
Workers reliied on typewriters. If they needed to copy a document, they would use a mimeograph or carbon paper.
-
In 1975, Gates and Allen form a partnership called Microsoft. Like most start-ups, Microsoft begins small, but has a huge vision—a computer on every desktop and in every home. During the next years, Microsoft begins to change the ways we work.
-
Gates and Allen hire Gates’ former Harvard classmate Steve Ballmer to help run the company.
-
A month after Gates' hired Steve Ballmer to help run the company, IBM approaches Microsoft about a project code-named "Chess." Microsoft then starts to focus on a new operating system—the software that manages, or runs, the computer hardware and also serves to bridge the gap between the computer hardware and programs, such as a word processor. It’s the foundation on which computer programs can run. They name their new operating system "MS‑DOS."
-
Windows is announced.
-
Microsoft ships Windows 1.0. Bill Gates says, “It is unique software designed for the serious PC user…”
-
Microsoft releases Windows 2.0 with desktop icons and expanded memory. With improved graphics support.
-
Microsoft becomes the world’s largest PC software company based on sales. Computers are started to become a part of daily life for some office workers.
-
Microsoft announces Windows 3.0, followed shortly by Windows 3.1.
-
The first version of Internet Explorer is released. The browser joins those already vying for space on the World Wide Web.
-
Microsoft releases Windows 95, selling a record-setting 7 million copies in the first five weeks.
-
Microsoft releases Flight Simulator for Windows 95.
-
Windows 98 is the first version of Windows designed specifically for consumers. PCs are common at work and home, and Internet cafes where you can get online. With Windows 98, you can find information more easily on your PC as well as the Internet. Other improvements include the ability to open and close programs more quickly, and support for reading DVD discs and universal serial bus (USB) devices. Windows 98 is the last version based on MS‑DOS.
-
Windows 2000 is professionally designed to replace Windows 95, and Windows 98. It has major improvements in reliability, ease of use, Internet compatibility, and support for mobile computing.
-
Windows XP is released with a redesigned look and feel that's centered on usability and a unified Help and Support services center. It was available in 25 different languages.
-
Windows XP Media Center Edition is made for home computing and entertainment. You can browse the Internet, watch live television, listen and enjoy digital music and video collections, and watch DVDs.
-
Windows XP Tablet PC Edition realizes the vision of pen-based computing. Tablet PCs include a digital pen for handwriting recognition and you can use the mouse or keyboard, too.
-
Windows Vista is released with the strongest security system yet.
-
Windows 7 is released in October 2009, laptops are outselling desktop PCs and it’s common to get online at public wireless hotspots like coffee shops. Wireless networks can be created at the office or at home.
