Windows Operating System
Windows is a widely used graphical operating system developed by Microsoft. It provides an interface for users to interact with computers using graphical elements such as windows, icons, menus, and pointers. Windows supports multitasking, networking, security features, and a vast range of software applications, making it suitable for personal, educational, and business use. Over the years, Windows has evolved significantly, introducing new features, improved user interface, enhanced security, and better performance with each version.
The latest version of Windows is Windows 12 (expected release in 2026), but the currently widely used version is Windows 11, released in October 2021. Windows 11 offers a modern and clean interface, redesigned Start menu, virtual desktops, Snap Layouts, enhanced gaming support with DirectStorage, and integrated Microsoft Teams. Windows has been known by different names in various versions, reflecting the evolution of its interface, features, and target audience.
Below is a table showing the major versions of Windows, their release years, and alternate names:
| Windows Version | Release Year | Other Name / Edition | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows 1.0 | 1985 | - | First GUI-based OS, basic MS-DOS interface, tiled windows |
| Windows 2.0 | 1987 | - | Improved GUI, overlapping windows, keyboard shortcuts |
| Windows 3.0 | 1990 | - | Advanced GUI, Program Manager, better memory management |
| Windows 3.1 | 1992 | Windows for Workgroups (3.11) | Multimedia support, TrueType fonts, networking |
| Windows 95 | 1995 | Chicago | Start menu introduced, taskbar, Plug & Play support |
| Windows 98 | 1998 | Memphis | Internet Explorer integrated, improved hardware support |
| Windows ME | 2000 | Millennium Edition | Home user focus, System Restore, improved multimedia |
| Windows 2000 | 2000 | NT 5.0 | Business-focused, Active Directory, better security |
| Windows XP | 2001 | Whistler | Long-lasting OS, improved UI, networking and stability |
| Windows Vista | 2006 | Longhorn | Aero interface, enhanced security, User Account Control |
| Windows 7 | 2009 | Vienna | Fast, stable, taskbar improvements, support for touchscreen |
| Windows 8 | 2012 | Windows Next | Metro UI, tile-based interface, faster booting |
| Windows 8.1 | 2013 | Windows Blue | Start button restored, improved UI, better app management |
| Windows 10 | 2015 | Threshold / Redstone | Universal apps, Cortana, Edge browser, security updates |
| Windows 11 | 2021 | Sun Valley | Modern UI, Snap Layouts, integrated Teams, improved gaming |
| Windows 12 | 2026 (expected) | - | Enhanced AI integration, advanced security, faster performance |
Windows has continuously evolved to meet modern computing demands, from early graphical interfaces to the latest Windows 11 and upcoming Windows 12.
MCQs on Windows OS
Which company developed Windows OS?
a) Apple
b) Microsoft ✅
c) IBM
d) GoogleWhich is the latest stable version of Windows as of 2026?
a) Windows 10
b) Windows 11 ✅
c) Windows 8.1
d) Windows XPWhich Windows version introduced the Start menu?
a) Windows 3.1
b) Windows 95 ✅
c) Windows 98
d) Windows MEWindows XP was released in which year?
a) 2000
b) 2001 ✅
c) 2005
d) 2006Which feature is NOT part of Windows 11?
a) Snap Layouts
b) Integrated Microsoft Teams
c) Aero Glass interface ✅
d) Virtual DesktopsThe Windows OS is primarily a:
a) Networking software
b) Programming language
c) Graphical Operating System ✅
d) Database softwareWhich Windows version focused mainly on home users with System Restore and multimedia features?
a) Windows 2000
b) Windows ME ✅
c) Windows Vista
d) Windows 8Which Windows version introduced tile-based Metro UI?
a) Windows 7
b) Windows 8 ✅
c) Windows Vista
d) Windows 10The code name ‘Whistler’ refers to which Windows version?
a) Windows Vista
b) Windows XP ✅
c) Windows 7
d) Windows 8Which of the following Windows versions was most long-lasting and widely used in businesses?
a) Windows 7
b) Windows XP ✅
c) Windows 8
d) Windows ME
Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
IBPS / SBI PO
Which of the following is an example of an operating system?
a) MS Word
b) Windows ✅
c) MS Excel
d) Google ChromeWindows 95 was notable for introducing:
a) Command-line interface
b) Start Menu ✅
c) Multitasking
d) None of theseWhich feature was introduced in Windows 10?
a) Aero Interface
b) Cortana ✅
c) Metro UI
d) Active Directory
SSC / JKSSB
The latest version of Windows is:
a) Windows 8
b) Windows 10
c) Windows 11 ✅
d) Windows XPWindows ME is also called:
a) Millennium Edition ✅
b) Chicago
c) Longhorn
d) ThresholdWhich Windows OS integrated Microsoft Teams?
a) Windows 10
b) Windows 11 ✅
c) Windows 7
d) Windows 8.1Which Windows version is business-focused with Active Directory and better security?
a) Windows ME
b) Windows 2000 ✅
c) Windows XP
d) Windows Vista