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.

Windows Overview

It looks like you've mentioned "Windows." Windows is a popular operating system developed by Microsoft. As of my last update, the latest version was Windows 11. However, there might have been new developments or releases since then.

Windows operating systems are used on a wide range of devices, including personal computers, laptops, tablets, and even some smartphones. Here are some key features and information about Windows:

• User Interface: Windows typically offers a graphical user interface (GUI) with a Start menu, taskbar, and desktop environment. Users can interact with the system through icons, windows, and menus.
• Versions: Over the years, Microsoft has released various versions of Windows, including Windows 95, Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10. Each version has brought new features, improvements, and changes to the user experience.
• Windows 11: Offering a refreshed user interface, updated taskbar, improved window management, and better integration with touch and pen input. Windows 11 was designed to provide a more modern and streamlined experience compared to Windows 10.
• Software Compatibility: Windows supports a wide range of software applications and games. However, some older software might not be compatible with newer versions of Windows due to changes in technology and architecture.
• Updates and Security: Regular updates are provided by Microsoft to improve functionality, fix bugs, and enhance security. Windows also includes built-in security features like Windows Defender and a built-in firewall to protect against malware and unauthorised access.
• Customisation: Windows allows users to customise their desktop backgrounds, themes, colour schemes, and more to personalise their computing experience.
• File Management: Windows provides a file system for organising and storing files and folders on storage devices such as hard drives and SSDs.
• Compatibility: Windows supports a wide range of hardware devices and peripherals, making it suitable for various types of computers.

If you have specific questions or need information about recent updates, features, or versions, I recommend checking the official Microsoft website or other reliable sources for the most up-to-date information.

Various OS (operating systems) Options

Certainly, there are several different operating systems (OS) available, each with its own features, purposes, and characteristics. Here are some of the most well-known ones:

Windows: 

Developed by Microsoft, Windows is one of the most widely used operating systems for personal computers. Versions like Windows 10 and Windows 11 are common choices for users who need compatibility with a wide range of software and hardware.

macOS: 

Developed by Apple, macOS is the operating system used on Apple's Macintosh computers. It's known for its sleek design, user-friendly interface, and strong integration with other Apple devices.

Linux: 

Linux is an open-source operating system that comes in various distributions (distros), each tailored to different user needs. Ubuntu, Fedora, and Debian are some popular Linux distributions. Linux is commonly used for servers, programming, and customization.

Android: 

Android is a mobile operating system developed by Google, primarily used on smartphones and tablets. It's known for its open nature, wide range of apps, and customizability.

iOS: 

Also developed by Apple, iOS is the operating system used on iPhones, iPads, and iPod Touch devices. It's known for its security, app ecosystem, and smooth user experience.

Chrome OS: 

Developed by Google, Chrome OS is a lightweight operating system designed mainly for web-based tasks and applications. It's commonly found on Chromebooks, which are affordable laptops.

Unix: 

Unix is a family of multitasking, multiuser computer operating systems. It has influenced the development of many modern operating systems, including Linux and macOS.

FreeBSD: 

FreeBSD is a free and open-source Unix-like operating system. It's known for its advanced networking, performance, and security features.

Solaris: 

Developed by Oracle, Solaris is a Unix-based operating system used in enterprise environments. It's known for its scalability and reliability.

Haiku: 

Haiku is an open-source operating system inspired by the BeOS. It focuses on delivering a responsive and media-oriented computing experience.

IBM z/OS: 

z/OS is an operating system designed for IBM mainframes, known for its scalability and reliability in handling critical business operations.

ReactOS: 

ReactOS is an open-source operating system that aims to be compatible with Windows software and drivers, providing an alternative to Windows.

These are just a few examples, and there are many more operating systems out there, each with its own strengths and purposes. The choice of operating system often depends on factors such as the intended use, hardware compatibility, software requirements, and personal preferences.