What is Windows 95? – Explaining the Basic Concepts of the Nostalgic Operating System
Windows 95 is an operating system developed by Microsoft and released on August 24, 1995. It was a significant milestone in the history of personal computing as it introduced several groundbreaking features and set the foundation for the modern Windows OS we use today.
Aesthetics and User Interface:
One of the most prominent features of Windows 95 was its user interface, which was a major departure from the previous versions. It introduced the iconic Start button, taskbar, and a graphical shell known as the Windows Explorer. Users experienced a visually appealing and intuitive interface, enabling them to navigate through the system more easily.
Plug and Play:
Windows 95 pioneered the “Plug and Play” technology, which simplified the process of installing and configuring new hardware devices. Before Windows 95, adding new devices to a computer required manual setup, including IRQ and DMA configurations. With Plug and Play, Windows 95 could automatically detect and configure the hardware, greatly reducing user intervention.
Long Filenames and File Organization:
Prior to Windows 95, the MS-DOS-based file system imposed an 8.3 character limit on file names, restricting their expressiveness. Windows 95 introduced the concept of “Long Filenames,” allowing users to use up to 255 characters for file names. Additionally, it introduced folders as a means of organizing files more efficiently.
Internet Integration:
Windows 95 was the first Windows version to come with built-in internet support. It included the Internet Explorer web browser, allowing users to easily access the World Wide Web. This integration marked a significant step towards the widespread adoption of the internet and changed the way people interacted with information.
Despite its age, Windows 95 still holds a special place in the hearts of many technology enthusiasts. Its introduction brought about a paradigm shift in personal computing, demonstrating Microsoft’s commitment to creating user-friendly and innovative operating systems. Windows 95 laid the groundwork for subsequent Windows versions, which continued to evolve and shape the modern digital landscape we enjoy today.
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