Practical 01
Aim: To Study Windows
What is Windows?
o Graphical User Interface: Windows revolutionized computing by introducing a graphical
user interface, enhancing usability and accessibility immensely.
o Multitasking Capabilities: It allows multiple applications to run concurrently, providing
users with efficient task management and workflow optimization.
o Software Application Support: Windows supports a vast array of software applications,
catering to diverse user needs across various industries.
This type of window is called an application window or main window. It typically has a frame with a
title bar, Minimize and Maximize buttons, and other standard UI elements. The frame is called
the non-client area of the window, so called because the operating system manages that portion of the
window. The area within the frame is the client area. This is the part of the window that your program
manages.
History of Windows
o Windows 1.0 (1985): Introduced a rudimentary graphical interface, supporting basic
applications like MS Paint and Notepad.
o Windows 3.0 (1990): Enhanced UI with improved graphics, multitasking capabilities,
and support for Expanded Memory, boosting performance.
o Windows 95 (1995): Integrated 32-bit architecture, Plug and Play hardware support, and the
Start menu, revolutionizing user interaction.
Windows 1.0 (1985)
o Windows 1.0 Overview: Introduced in 1985, Windows 1.0 marked Microsoft's initial foray
into graphical user interfaces.
o Key Applications: Featured critical applications including MS Paint, Windows Writer, and
Notepad, enhancing user productivity substantially.
o MS-DOS Integration: Operated as an extension of MS-DOS, allowing users to interact with
the system via a GUI.
Windows 2.0 And Windows 3.0 (1990)
o Windows 2.0 Advancements: Introduced overlapping windows, enabling intuitive
interaction and significantly enhancing the graphical experience for users.
o Improved Graphics Support: Enhanced graphics capabilities in Windows 2.0 accelerated
performance and visual quality for application interfaces extensively.
o Business Adoption of Windows 3.0: Windows 3.0's advanced memory management facilitated
widespread business adoption, increasing productivity through efficient resource allocation.
Windows 3.1 And Windows 95
o Multimedia Enhancements in 3.1: Windows 3.1 introduced significant multimedia
support, facilitating better audio and video integration for applications.
o Stability Improvements: Enhanced stability in Windows 3.1 minimized crashes and
facilitated smoother multitasking experiences for users.
o Contrast with Windows 95: Windows 95 offered the Start Menu, Taskbar, and
internet connectivity, defining a new era in user interaction.
Architecture of Windows
o Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL): HAL isolates hardware specifics, enabling
Windows to interact with various hardware types uniformly and efficiently.
o Kernel Functions: The kernel manages system resources, orchestrating memory,
processes, and hardware communication for operational efficiency.
o User Mode Components: User mode consists of System Services and Environment
Subsystems, facilitating user applications' execution and interaction.
Key Features of Windows
o User-Friendly Interface: Cultivates an intuitive experience, allowing users to navigate
and interact seamlessly with system functionalities.
o Integrated Security Features: Offers robust security measures, including firewalls,
malware protection, and user access controls to safeguard data.
o Advanced Networking Support: Facilitates network connectivity, enabling resource
sharing and communication across diverse systems and devices effectively.
Understanding the Start Menu
o Centralized Access Point: The Start Menu serves as a centralized hub to
streamline access across applications, tools, and settings.
o Frequently Used Applications: Displays a list of frequently used apps,
optimizing user workflow and enhancing accessibility for efficient tasking.
o Search Functionality: Incorporates search functions that allow quick location of
files and applications, boosting productivity significantly.
Control Panel Overview
o System and Security: Provides tools for system management, including Windows
Defender and backup functionalities to enhance security.
o Hardware and Sound: Allows users to manage device settings, audio
configurations, and troubleshoot hardware issues effectively.
o Ease of Access: Offers accessibility features such as screen magnifier and narrator,
promoting inclusivity for all users.
Advantages of Windows Operating System
o User-Friendly Nature: Windows OS is designed to enhance usability, offering a familiar
interface for users of all levels.
o Comprehensive Application Support: A wide range of supported applications makes
Windows suitable for business, gaming, and personal use cases.
o Gaming Performance: Optimized drivers and extensive game support position Windows
as the platform of choice for gamers worldwide
Disadvantages of Windows Operating System
o High License Costs: The financial burden of Windows licensing may deter
cost-sensitive users from adopting the platform easily.
o Security Vulnerabilities: Windows OS remains susceptible to malware and exploits,
posing significant risks concerning user data safety.
o Closed-Source Model: The proprietary nature limits customization and transparency,
complicating security assessments and user modifications.
