Microsoft celebrates the 40th anniversary of Windows

On November 20, 1985, Microsoft launched the first version of Windows, beginning a technological journey that would make computers accessible to everyone.

Windows 1.0 was introduced as a graphical user interface on top of MS-DOS and allowed users to navigate with mouse and clicks rather than typing complex commands on a keyboard.

Windows 1.0 also included programs such as the word processor Microsoft Write and the Paint drawing tool, which are still part of Windows today.

Another major innovation was easier access to connected devices such as printers, which helped increase usability for ordinary users.

The road to breakthrough and global dominance

However, it wasn’t until Windows 3.0 that Microsoft really began to gain a foothold in the market.

The improved user interface and new features like the Solitaire game increased its popularity, but the big breakthrough came with Windows 95.

This version introduced important elements such as the Start menu, taskbar and internet connection support.

The combination of more features and a user-friendly design meant that sales increased significantly.

According to ARD digital expert Jörg Schieb, Microsoft had an almost monopolistic position in the 1990s and 2000s.

– In those years, Microsoft clearly had a monopoly position with Windows, not least through contracts with PC manufacturers who installed Windows as standard, he says.

Not all versions of Windows were well received, however.

Windows ME was criticized for poor performance and stability, and Windows Vista caused compatibility issues.

However, Microsoft regained trust with Windows 10, which was launched in 2015 and is now being gradually phased out in favor of Windows 11.

According to Microsoft’s own information, security updates for Windows 10 in Europe will end in 2026 and users are encouraged to switch to the latest version.

Windows in an AI-driven future

Windows continues to hold a strong market position with a global share of around 70 percent, according to figures from July 2025.

In comparison, MacOS has eight percent and Linux four percent.

Microsoft has also made its mark on other technological fronts, especially in artificial intelligence.

– Microsoft is strongly positioned in AI. They own large stakes in OpenAI and integrate the technology into all products, including Windows, Office and cloud solutions, says Jörg Schieb.

With the integration of AI into key products, Microsoft aims to maintain its position as one of the world’s leading technology companies.