There have been many iterations of Windows Operating Systems throughout computer history, starting with Microsoft Windows version 1, which was released in 1985. That was Microsoft’s attempt at making a graphical multitasking operating environment for IBM PCs. It ran on top of MS-DOS and PC-DOS. The first big development didn’t come until the early 90s, when Microsoft released Windows 3.0, which completely revamped the DOS executive of earlier Windows with a new Program Manager. The 3.1 upgrade added support for multimedia, and was the foundation for Windows 95. Windows 95 included a new document-oriented desktop shell, and also added the much beloved Start menu, as an easy way to access all installed programs. Even though it could run 32-bit applications, Windows 95 still ran on top of DOS, and this continued with Windows 98, which was mostly identical, only with a much heavier emphasis on web integration and internet accessibility. Windows 98 was followed by Windows ME and Windows 2000, which were meant for home use and business use, respectively. Windows ME worked a lot like 98, only with a better Help system, slightly more unstable, and a crippled DOS backend. Windows 2000 however, was much more stable, being based on Windows NT, and was designed for the workplace. Both of these eventually led to Windows XP, a fan favourite and the first version of Windows not built on top of DOS. Perhaps in the future, we shall discuss all the OSes after XP. For now, which one is your favourite?