Windows 95 celebrates 20th anniversary

Posted on Monday, August 24 2015 @ 11:14 CEST by Thomas De Maesschalck
Microsoft logo
Exactly 20 years ago Microsoft made headlines with the launch of Windows 95, it was the firm's first 32-bit consumer OS and in many ways it really set the stage for the subsequent versions of Windows.

Besides offering a fully redesigned user interface that introduced the iconic Start menu, Windows 95 was a lot user friendlier than previous versions of Windows, it had much better file management as well as enhanced multi-tasking support.

A lot of revolutionary features at the time are quite mundane today, including the introduction of GUI-based cut and paste support, support for file names longer than 11 characters, plug-and-play support, the recycling bin, right button menus, etc. But while it was a big step up, Windows 95 was far from perfect of course. In fact, as a power user you'd be lucky if the OS crashed only once a week.

Here's a copy of the promotional video for several early Windows 95 applications that was sent to retailers for the Windows 95 launch:



And here we have some footage from the Windows 95 launch event:



For a look at what Windows 3.11 felt like, here's a video of a first-time user. It's kinda long-winded but it gives you an idea of how Windows operated before the launch of Windows 95.



About the Author

Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.



Loading Comments