What is Microsoft Windows?
{{Redirect|Windows|the part of a building|Window|the version of the OS used on phones|Windows Phone}} {{Infobox OS | name = Microsoft Windows | logo = Windows logo and wordmark - 2021.svg | caption = The Windows logo | source_model = [[Closed source]] | kernel_type = Hybrid | developer = [[Microsoft]] | family = [[Windows NT]] | working_state = Active | released = {{Start date and age|1985|11|20}} | latest_release_version = 24H2 (Build 26100) | latest_release_date = October 1, 2024 | license = [[Proprietary software]] | website = {{url|windows.microsoft.com}} }} '''Microsoft Windows''' is an [[operating system]] for [[computer]]s made by the [[United States]]-based company [[Microsoft]]. Windows is used by almost 90% of desktop and [[laptop]] computers. == History == The first version of Windows, Windows 1.0, came out on November 20, 1985. The newest version, [[Windows 11]], came out October 5, 2021. Most [[personal computer]]s made after 2015 come with [[Windows 10]]. However, some older or cheaper personal computers may come with [[Windows 8.1]] or [[Windows 7]]. Windows makes it easier to run [[Computer software|programs]] (applications) than [[MS-DOS]] did. [[DOS]] required [[Typing|typed]] [[Command Line Interface|commands]] to make the computer do something. However, DOS required correct [[syntax]] of each command. Making mistakes caused the computer to usually give an [[error]] message and do nothing. == Design == Users control their Windows computer by its [[Graphical user interfaces and consoles|graphical user interface]] (or GUI for short). It only needs a [[Keyboard (computer)|keyboard]] ''or'' a [[Computer mouse|mouse]] to work. In later versions, a touch screen works as well. However, using both a keyboard and a mouse makes many tasks easier. By clicking a few [[Button (control)|buttons]] on the screen, Windows helps keep your files safe, and easier to change and move. Versions of Windows after 2005 make it even easier for some [[Accessibility|users with disabilities]] because these versions have