====== Principal Windows Versions and Configurations ====== This document provides an overview of the most significant Windows operating system versions and their basic configurations. ===== Windows 95 ===== Windows 95 was released on August 24, 1995. It marked a major milestone in Windows operating systems by integrating MS-DOS with a graphical user interface (GUI). * **Key Features**: - First to include the Start Menu. - Introduced Plug and Play hardware support. - 32-bit multitasking. - Enhanced multimedia capabilities. * **System Requirements**: - CPU: 386DX or higher. - RAM: 4 MB minimum. - Hard Disk: 55 MB free. - Graphics: VGA or higher. ===== Windows 98 ===== Released on June 25, 1998, Windows 98 was an enhancement of Windows 95 with better support for newer hardware and software. * **Key Features**: - Improved hardware support. - Internet Explorer 4.0 with better integration. - Enhanced file system with FAT32. - Support for USB devices. * **System Requirements**: - CPU: 486DX or higher. - RAM: 16 MB minimum. - Hard Disk: 500 MB free. - Graphics: Super VGA or higher. ===== Windows XP ===== Released on October 25, 2001, Windows XP was one of the most popular and long-lasting Windows versions. * **Key Features**: - Introduced the "Luna" visual style. - Improved security and stability over previous versions. - Enhanced multimedia features with Windows Media Player. - Fast user switching and Remote Desktop. * **System Requirements**: - CPU: 233 MHz or faster processor. - RAM: 64 MB minimum (128 MB recommended). - Hard Disk: 1.5 GB free. - Graphics: Super VGA (800x600) or higher. ===== Windows Vista ===== Released on January 30, 2007, Windows Vista introduced a new interface and new security features but received mixed reviews due to its performance demands. * **Key Features**: - Int