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    Microsoft Windows
    Software

    Microsoft Windows

    United States flagUnited States

    "Your world, your way."

    Founded November 20, 1985 Redmond, Washington, USA CEO: Satya Nadella
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    About

    Windows is a proprietary operating system from Microsoft, designed to power a wide range of computing devices. The Windows family includes editions for personal computers, servers (Windows Server), and embedded systems (Windows IoT). Within the PC lineup, versions like Home, Professional, Education, and Enterprise cater to different users, from casual consumers to large corporations. Microsoft sells Windows directly to consumers and also licenses it to computer manufacturers, who preinstall it on their machines.

    The first version, Windows 1.0, launched on November 20, 1985, as a graphical shell for MS-DOS, responding to the rising popularity of graphical user interfaces. The name comes from the windowing system used in GUIs. Windows 3.0, released in 1990, propelled Microsoft into market dominance and sparked the creation of other product lines, including Windows Mobile, Windows Phone, and Windows CE (now discontinued).

    As of June 2026, Windows holds a 72% share of the desktop operating system market, making it the most popular choice for personal computers. It ranks as the second-most used operating system overall, behind Android. The latest version, Windows 11, accounts for 70% of all Windows installations.

    Products & Sub-brands

    Windows 11Windows 10Windows ServerWindows IoTWindows HomeWindows ProfessionalWindows Enterprise

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Who owns Microsoft Windows?
    Microsoft Windows is owned by Microsoft Corporation, which was founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen.
    Who is the CEO of Microsoft?
    Satya Nadella has served as the CEO of Microsoft Corporation, the company that develops and markets Windows, since February 2014.
    What is Microsoft Windows worth?
    Microsoft Corporation, the parent company of Windows, has a market capitalization that places it among the world's most valuable companies, reporting a net income of $72.7 billion in fiscal year 2023.
    Is Windows still in use?
    Yes, Microsoft Windows remains the dominant operating system for desktop computers worldwide, holding a 72% market share as of June 2026.
    What is the latest version of Windows?
    The latest version is Windows 11, which is installed on 70% of all Windows devices.

    Keywords

    operating systemMicrosoftOSdesktoppersonal computersoftwareWindows 11Windows 10

    Company Info

    Founded
    November 20, 1985
    Founder
    Bill Gates and Paul Allen
    CEO
    Satya Nadella
    Headquarters
    Redmond, Washington, USA
    Industry
    Software
    Parent Company
    Microsoft Corporation
    Revenue
    $72.7 billion (net income FY2023)
    Market Share (Desktop)
    72% (as of June 2026)
    Latest Version Adoption
    70% of Windows devices run Windows 11
    Founder(s)
    Bill Gates, Paul Allen
    Current CEO (Microsoft)
    Satya Nadella

    Official Website

    windows.com

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