Windows 95

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Windows 95 is an operating system developed by Microsoft as part of its Windows 9x family of operating systems. It was released on August 24, 1995, and was a significant improvement over the company's previous Windows 3.1x operating system. Windows 95 introduced several new features and improvements, including a new user interface, support for long file names, and plug and play hardware compatibility.

Features

Windows 95 was notable for its introduction of the Start menu, which provided a central point for accessing applications and system settings. The taskbar was another new feature, allowing users to see and switch between open applications easily. The operating system also included Windows Explorer, a new file management tool that replaced the older File Manager.

User Interface

The user interface of Windows 95 was a major departure from previous versions of Windows. It featured a new desktop environment with icons, a taskbar, and a Start menu. The Start menu provided quick access to programs, documents, and system settings, while the taskbar allowed users to see and switch between open applications.

File System

Windows 95 introduced support for long file names, allowing files to have names up to 255 characters in length, including spaces. This was a significant improvement over the 8.3 filename limitation of MS-DOS and earlier versions of Windows.

Plug and Play

One of the key features of Windows 95 was its support for plug and play hardware. This allowed the operating system to automatically detect and configure new hardware devices, making it easier for users to add and remove hardware components.

Networking

Windows 95 included improved networking capabilities, with built-in support for TCP/IP, IPX/SPX, and NetBEUI protocols. It also included support for dial-up networking, allowing users to connect to the Internet or other remote networks using a modem.

Development

Windows 95 was developed under the codename "Chicago" and was a major project for Microsoft. The development process involved significant changes to the underlying architecture of the operating system, as well as extensive testing and refinement.

Release and Reception

Windows 95 was released to great fanfare on August 24, 1995. Microsoft launched an extensive marketing campaign, including a television commercial featuring the song "Start Me Up" by the Rolling Stones. The operating system was well-received by both consumers and critics, who praised its user-friendly interface and improved performance.

Legacy

Windows 95 was succeeded by Windows 98 in 1998, but it remained popular for several years after its release. It played a significant role in the widespread adoption of personal computers and the growth of the Internet. Despite being discontinued, Windows 95 is remembered as a landmark in the history of personal computing.

Related Pages

• Windows 98
• Windows 3.1x
• Microsoft
• Operating system
• Start menu
• Taskbar
• Windows Explorer
• Plug and play
• TCP/IP
• IPX/SPX
• NetBEUI
• Dial-up networking