Microsoft’s Windows operating system is a popular and frequently used operating system. It is a graphical operating system with an easy-to-use interface for launching applications, managing files and folders, and connecting to the internet.
Windows is used on a wide range of devices, including desktop computers, laptop computers, tablets, and servers. It is compatible with a wide range of hardware and software and serves as a platform for many popular applications such as web browsers, productivity tools, and games.
Editions Of Windows Operating System
The Windows operating system is available in numerous editions, each tailored to satisfy the demands of different types of users and devices. Among the most common editions are:
Windows 10 Home
Designed for home users, this edition offers basic features such as the Start Menu, Cortana, the Edge web browser, and the Windows Store for downloading apps and games. Several of the more advanced features, such as BitLocker encryption and Remote Desktop, are not included.
Windows 10 Pro
This edition is intended for small and medium-sized enterprises, and it includes all of the capabilities of Windows 10 Home as well as more advanced features like Remote Desktop, BitLocker encryption, and Hyper-V virtualization. It also provides more administration features, such as domain joining and group policy management.
Windows 10 Enterprise
Designed for large enterprises, this edition offers all of the features of Windows 10 Pro as well as advanced security features such as Windows Information Protection, Credential Guard, and Device Guard. Other management functions, such as Windows To Go and AppLocker, are also included.
Windows 10 Education
This edition is intended for educational institutions and offers all of the capabilities of Windows 10 Enterprise, as well as instructional tools such as Windows Ink, 3D tools, and Cortana with voice recognition.
Windows 10 Pro for Workstations
This edition is intended for high-end PCs and workstations, and it includes all of the features of Windows 10 Pro as well as additional features for high performance and scalability, such as support for server-grade hardware, Resilient File System (ReFS), and support for up to four CPUs.
Windows 10 IoT (Internet of Things)
This edition is intended for IoT devices and offers various versions based on device type, such as IoT Core for small devices and IoT Enterprise for more complex devices.
Windows 10 S
This edition is built for security and performance, and it only offers Microsoft Store apps, which means users cannot download and install third-party software. It is widely utilized in schools and other educational settings.
There are additional specialist editions of Windows, such as Windows Server for running servers, Windows 10 LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel) for devices that require long-term stability and support, and Windows 10X for dual-screen devices.
What is the latest version of windows operating system?
On October 5, 2021, Microsoft released Windows 11, the most recent version of the Windows operating system. Here are some significant features and changes of Windows 11:
- Windows 11 introduces a redesigned user interface with a centered Start menu, rounded corners, and new animations. Users now have the flexibility to move the taskbar to the center or hide it, allowing for more control over their desktop layout.
- Windows 11 brings performance enhancements such as faster startup times, extended battery life, and smoother multitasking. It also supports DirectStorage, a new technique that enables faster game loading and improved performance.
- New features in Windows 11 include Snap Layouts and Snap Groups, which make it easier to manage and navigate between multiple windows. It also includes a new virtual desktop feature, a rebuilt Microsoft Store, and support for Android apps from the Amazon Appstore.
- Windows 11 incorporates improved security measures, including better ransomware protection, a built-in passwordless sign-in option, and hardware-based security features like Secure Boot and virtualization-based security.
- Windows 11 has more system requirements compared to Windows 10, including a 64-bit processor, 4GB of RAM, and a DirectX 12 compliant graphics card. Some older devices may not be compatible with Windows 11.
- Windows 11 is available as a free upgrade for qualifying Windows 10 devices and can be purchased as a new version for other devices. Microsoft has also announced support for Windows 10 until October 14, 2025.
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