Windows has evolved significantly from its initial 1.0 release in 1985, introducing major milestones like Windows 95 that brought improvements to the user interface and functionality. The latest versions of Windows like Windows 10 integrate cloud services while emphasizing security and unifying the experience across different devices. Windows uses a hybrid kernel to balance performance and stability, with applications running in user mode isolated from the kernel which runs core operating system components and drivers in a privileged kernel mode. Common security features in Windows include User Account Control, Windows Defender, and regular updates to help protect against vulnerabilities, while proper software management is important to maintain a secure computing environment.

1. Evolution of Windows
From its beginnings in 1985 to the modern era, Windows revolutionized the
way we use computers. Let's travel through time and uncover its major
milestones.

2. Introduction to Windows Operating
System
The Beginning
Windows 1.0 launched with
a graphical user interface
(GUI) on November 20,
1985.
Critical Design
Updates
Windows 95 and 98 brought
many important changes to
the OS, improving the user
experience and enhancing
functionality.
Advanced Technology
Windows XP brought
significant performance
improvements via a
revamped visual style and
introduced Windows Media
Player.

3. Windows 1.0 and Its Features
Icons
Windows 1.0 introduced the
graphical interface, featuring
icons that represented objects
instead of textual commands.
MS-DOS Integration
Windows 1.0 still relied on MS-
DOS for many underlying
functions such as file
management, disk copying, and
printing.
GUI
The first version's windows were
not resizable, did not overlap,
and lacked a mouse-driven
interface.

4. Evolution of Windows User Interface
1
Windows 3.1 (1992)
Introduced scalable fonts, improved
multimedia support, and revamped
the program manager interface.
2
Windows 95 (1995)
The Start menu, taskbar, and
Explorer replaced Program
Manager, and long filenames were
allowed for the first time.
3
Windows XP (2001)
The "Luna" theme brought a fresh
look, and desktop composition
empowered developers to create
modern graphic effects.
4
Windows 10 (2015)
The Start menu was improved,
virtual desktops and Cortana were
added, and Windows apps could run
in a window.

5. Major Milestones in the History of
Windows OS
1 Windows 95
Introduced Plug and Play and DirectX
graphics technology, paving the way for
modern games and multimedia.
2 Windows XP
Established the NT kernel architecture,
providing a stable and secure platform
for computing.
3 Windows 7
Brought major improvements to the
interface, including the Aero theme,
and debuted new features such as
HomeGroup and Libraries.
4 Windows 10
The last version of Windows changed
the way Windows was released, with
regular feature updates and servicing.

6. Latest Version of Windows: Windows 10
Start Menu
The classic Start menu returned,
mixing it with the Start screen’s
design.
Task View
A button on the taskbar gives an
overview of your apps and virtual
desktops.
Cortana
A revamped digital assistant can
assist you with day-to-day tasks,
like scheduling reminders and
searching the web.

7. Future of Windows OS
Cloud Integration
Microsoft is increasingly
integrating cloud services
and offering subscription
products such as Office 365
and OneDrive.
Emphasis on Security
Microsoft has developed
several new security
features, including biometric
authentication, in response
to increased online threats.
Increased Integration
between Devices
With the growing ubiquity of
devices, Microsoft is
continually refining ways to
unify the Windows
experience beetween PCs,
tablets, and smartphones.

8. Versions of Windows Operating System
Windows 1.0
It is the First version of MS.
It was released by Microsoft
on November 20, 1985.
User Interface :
overlapping windows, drop-
down menus, and scroll
bars
Application :Notepad,
Calendar, Calculator, and
Paint.
Multitasking
Windows 95
It was released by Microsoft
on August 24, 1995.
User Interface : Start Button,
Start Menu, Taskbar.
Plug and Play
Long Filenames
Internet Explorer Integration
Task Switching
Internet Explorer Integration
Windows 98
It was released by
Microsoft on June 25,
1998.
User Interface
Better Device Manager and
Plug and Play.
Universal Serial Bus (USB)
Support.
System File Protection
Web Integration
Internet Connection Sharing

9. Versions of Windows Operating System
Windows Me
It was released by Microsoft
on September 14, 2000
User Interface : visual
enhancements and
updated icons
System Restore
Movie Maker
Internet Integration
Digital Media Support
Automatic Updates
Windows 2000
It was released by Microsoft
on February 17, 2000
User Interface
Stability and Reliability
Active Directory
Security Enhancements
Plug and Play
Improvements
Networking Features
Windows XP
It was released by
Microsoft on October 25,
2001.
User Interface : a
redesigned Start Menu,
Taskbar, and icons
Improved Stability and
Compatibility.
Fast User Switching
Remote Desktop
System Restore and System
File Protection

10. Versions of Windows Operating System
Windows Vista
It was released by Microsoft
on January 30, 2007
User Interface :featuring
transparent windows, live
previews, animations,
Aero. User Account Control
(UAC)
Search and Organization
Security Improvements
Windows Sidebar and
Gadgets
Networking Enhancements
Windows 7
It was released by Microsoft
on October 22, 2009
User Interface : retaining the
Aero visual style with
transparent windows, live
Improved Performance
Taskbar Enhancements
Security Enhancements
Touch and Tablet Support
Libraries and HomeGroup
Windows 8
It was released by
Microsoft on October 26,
2012
Metro UI (Modern UI)
Start Screen and Start
Button
Charms Bar
Full-Screen Apps
Snap Multitasking
App Store
Secure Boot and
UEFI(Unified Extensible
Firmware Interface)

11. Versions of Windows Operating System
Windows 8.1
It was released by Microsoft
on October 17, 2013
Start Button and Start
Menu
Boot to Desktop Option
Improved Personalization
Search Improvements
Improved Snap Multitasking
App Updates
Enhancements
Security and Performance
Improvements
Windows 10
It was released by Microsoft
on February 17, 2000
Universal Apps
Cortana
Action Center
Task View and Virtual
Desktops
Microsoft Edge
Start Menu Customization
Security Enhancements
DirectX 12
Windows 11
It was released by
Microsoft on October 5,
2021
Redesigned User Interface
Snap Layouts and Snap
Groups
Direct Integration with
Microsoft Teams
Widgets
New Microsoft Store
Virtual Desktops and
Gaming Improvements

12. Windows kernel
 The Windows kernel is a key program that
is crucial for Windows to function. The
kernel is the first program to load after
the bootloader.
 The kernel performs key services such
as scheduling, launching, and ending
processes; and, initializing, running
drivers (programs that communicate with
hardware), and ensuring that memory is
allocated correctly.
 The Windows kernel is a hybrid kernel,
which means it attempts to combine
features and benefits
of microkernel and monolithic kernel
architectures. The idea is to
simultaneously benefit from the
performance monolithic kernels provide and
the stability that microkernels provide.

13. User Mode and Kernel Mode
USER MODE KERNEL MODE
A processor in a computer running Windows has two different
modes: user mode and kernel mode.
The processor switches between the two modes depending on what
type of code is running on the processor. Applications run in user
mode, and core operating system components run in kernel mode.
While many drivers run in kernel mode, some drivers may run in
user mode.
 Windows creates
a process for the
application.
 Private virtual address
space
 Application can't alter
data that belongs to
another application.
 Each application runs
in isolation.
 Operating system aren't
affected by the crash
 Single virtual
address space.
 Driver isn't
isolated from other
drivers.
 If a kernel-mode
driver crashes, the
entire operating
system crashes.

14. Windows Architecture
1 2
3 The x86-processors have four
different modes divided into four
different rings.
Ring 0,1,2,3
4 In most existing systems switching
from “user mode” to “kernel
mode” has a high cost in
performance associated.
Multiple rings of protection were
among the most revolutionary
concepts introduced by the Multics
operating system, most general-
purpose systems use only two
rings
Many modern CPU
architectures (including the
popular Intel x86 architecture)
include some form of ring
protection, although the
Windows NT operating system,
like Unix, does not fully utilize
this feature.

15. Security features of windows :
1. User Account Control (UAC) :
prompts users for confirmation before allowing applications to make system-level changes
2. Windows Defender:
Built-in antivirus and anti-malware protection
3. BitLocker:
disk encryption feature that helps protect data in case of theft or unauthorized access.
4. Windows Firewall:
controls incoming and outgoing network traffic
5. Windows Update:
Automatic updates help keep the system and applications up to date

16. Security features of windows :
6. Windows Security Center:
provides a centralized location for monitoring the security status
7. Credential Guard:
isolates and protects user credentials to prevent theft.
8. Windows Defender SmartScreen:
helps protect against phishing and malicious websites by checking website reputation and
blocking potentially harmful content.
9. AppLocker:
This allows administrators to specify which applications can run on a system
10. Device Guard:
security feature that uses code integrity policies and virtualization-based security to protect
against malware.

17. Common Vulnerabilities :
1. Phishing and Social Engineering:
Attackers often target users through
email, social engineering, or fake
websites to steal credentials
2. Malware:
Despite built-in antivirus protection,
Windows can still be susceptible to
malware attacks if users download
and execute malicious files.
3. Unpatched Systems:
Failure to keep the operating system
and software up to date with security
patches
4. Weak or Default Passwords:
Weak or default passwords can make it
easier for attackers to gain unauthorized
access to systems.
5. Inadequate User Training:
Lack of user awareness and training can
lead to security breaches through actions
like clicking on malicious links or opening
infected email attachments.
6. Third-Party Software:
Vulnerabilities in third-party software
installed on Windows systems can be
exploited to compromise the OS.

18. Software
Management

19. Introduction
• Software management is a fundamental aspect of maintaining a robust and
functional computing environment, within the Windows operating system.
• Software management encompasses the processes of installing, updating,
and removing applications and programs.
• Windows provides a dynamic ecosystem that combines user-initiated actions
with automated mechanisms to ensure smooth software operation and
overall system performance.
• Now, we will delve into the core concepts and mechanisms that Windows
employs to effectively manage software, contributing to an enhanced user
experience and a secure computing environment.

20. Dependency Management
Compatibility Management
Configuration & Settings
Installation Updating
Uninstallation
Core Processes
Life-Cycle Management
Software Packaging
& Deployment
Patch Management

21. Active Software Management
• Active software management in Windows refers to the deliberate and
user-initiated processes involved in installing, updating, and removing
software applications on the operating system.
• Unlike passive management, which involves automated background
processes, active management requires user interaction and control
over various aspects of software handling.
• This approach provides users with flexibility and control while
ensuring that their system remains secure and up-to-date.

22. Provides real-time protection against viruses,
malware, and other threats, offers regular
scans and updates to maintain system
security.
Offers detailed insights into system
performance and resource usage, helps
identify resource-intensive processes and
optimize system efficiency.
Automatically downloads and installs updates for
Windows and Microsoft products. Ensures the
operating system and software stay up-to-date
for improved security and functionality.
Enables automation of routine tasks.
Schedule tasks like disk cleanup, system
maintenance, and software updates for
convenience.
Tools of Active Software Management
Defender Antivirus
Windows Update
Resource Monitor
Task Scheduler
Windows Performance Toolkit
Provides advanced diagnostic and troubleshooting capabilities.
Helps identify and resolve issues impacting system performance.

23. Passive Software Management
• Focuses on automating software-related processes to minimize user
involvement.
• Includes automated updates, background maintenance, and resource
optimization.
• Operates in the background without requiring constant user attention.
• Examples include automatic updates, scheduled maintenance, and silent
installations.
• Together, these approaches ensure that software remains up-to-date,
secure, and optimized while offering users a balance between control and
automation in managing their software environment.

24. Components of Passive Software Management
Passive management includes background
processes that maintain software health
without user intervention.
Background Maintenance
Provides real-time protection against viruses,
malware, and other threats, offers regular scans
and updates to maintain system security.
Enhances Security
The beneficial software components or its
dependency are silently installed inside the
isolation space.
Silent Installations
These updates include security patches, bug
fixes, and feature enhancements to maintain
system security and performance.
Automatic Updates
Error Handling & Rollback
Passive software management includes error handling mechanisms that can detect failed updates.
In case of a failed update, systems can automatically rollback to the previous version to prevent
disruptions.
This ensures system stability even in the face of update failures.

25. Conclusion
Impressive history
With over 35 years in the market, Windows has left
an indelible mark on the world of computing.
Continual improvements
Microsoft has shown time and time again that they
are committed to enhancing the user experience
and creating an increasingly secure and integrated
platform.