Tuesday, August 29, 2023

Windows Operating System Versions, Editions, and End of Support Dates

I can certainly provide you with a list of Microsoft Windows versions, their edition names, and approximate end-of-support dates up until my last update. Please note that these dates might have changed, so it's recommended to verify the information from a reliable source.

Windows 1.0

Release: November 20, 1985

Editions: Single version

End of Support: Discontinued

Brief History: Windows 1.0 was the first graphical user interface-based operating system from Microsoft. It had a simple interface with overlapping windows and mouse support.

Windows 2.0

Release: December 9, 1987

Editions: Single version

End of Support: Discontinued

Brief History: Windows 2.0 introduced improvements over its predecessor, including overlapping windows, keyboard shortcuts, and expanded application support.

Windows 3.x

Release: April 6, 1992

Editions: Standard, Extended, Workgroups

End of Support: Discontinued

Brief History: These versions introduced significant UI improvements, better memory management, and enhanced multimedia support.

Windows 95

Release: August 24, 1995

Editions: 95, 95 OSR1, 95 OSR2

End of Support: December 31, 2001

Brief History: Windows 95 brought the Start menu, taskbar, and a more user-friendly interface. OSR1 and OSR2 were updated versions with bug fixes and additional features.

Windows 98

Release: June 25, 1998

Editions: 98, 98 SE

End of Support: July 11, 2006

Brief History: Windows 98 and Windows 98 SE introduced improved hardware and software support, along with the inclusion of Internet Explorer 4.0 and Windows Update.

Windows Me (Millennium Edition)

Release: September 14, 2000

Editions: Me

End of Support: July 11, 2006

Brief History: Windows Me focused on multimedia and home networking improvements, but it was criticized for instability and compatibility issues.

Windows 2000

Release: February 17, 2000

Editions: Professional, Server, Advanced Server, Datacenter Server

End of Support: July 13, 2010

Brief History: Windows 2000 brought stability and improved networking capabilities for both business and server use.

Windows XP

Release: October 25, 2001

Editions: Home, Professional, Media Center, Tablet PC

End of Support: April 8, 2014

Brief History: Windows XP became one of the most widely used Windows versions, introducing a more modern interface, improved stability, and enhanced multimedia capabilities.

Windows Vista

Release: January 30, 2007

Editions: Home Basic, Home Premium, Business, Ultimate

End of Support: April 11, 2017

Brief History: Windows Vista featured a new interface and security enhancements, but it faced criticism for performance issues.

Windows 7

Release: October 22, 2009

Editions: Starter, Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional, Ultimate

End of Support: January 14, 2020

Brief History: Windows 7 improved on Vista's shortcomings, introducing better performance, improved interface, and enhanced compatibility.

Windows 8

Release: October 26, 2012

Editions: 8, 8 Pro, 8 Enterprise

End of Support: January 10, 2023

Brief History: Windows 8 introduced a touch-oriented interface and app store, but it received mixed reviews. 

Windows 8.1

Release: October 17, 2013

Editions: 8.1, 8.1 Pro, 8.1 Enterprise

End of Support: January 10, 2023

Brief History: Windows 8.1 addressed some issues and brought back the Start button.

Windows 10

Release: July 29, 2015

Editions: Multiple editions including Home, Pro, Enterprise, Education

End of Support: October 14, 2025

Brief History: Windows 10 marked a shift to a "Windows as a Service" model, receiving regular feature updates and improvements over time.

Windows 11

Release: October 5, 2021

Editions: Multiple editions including Home, Pro, Pro for Workstations, Pro Education, Education, Enterprise, SE

End of Support: October 8, 2024

Brief History: Windows 11, introduced with a redesigned Start menu, rounded corners, enhanced snap controls, Widgets integration, and a revamped Windows setup, builds on its predecessor with modern interface tweaks and streamlined user experiences.


Please verify end of support dates from a reliable source as they might have changed since my last update.

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