The windows system is a collection of code that manages computer hardware and software. It supports multiple graphical applications and provides file system services. It also allows users to work on several programs simultaneously, through cooperative multitasking.
The windows system includes a set of tools to facilitate network setup. These include the Control Panel, which allows users to change settings for their computers.
Graphical user interface (GUI)
GUIs allow users to interact with their computer using graphical elements. This makes them more user-friendly than CLIs, which are text-based and require commands to be typed on a keyboard. GUIs can be found on computers, tablets, mobile devices and even some video game consoles.
Microsoft Windows is one of the most popular GUIs for PCs. It was first released in 1985 and has since undergone many developments and evolutions. Its main features include a taskbar, which displays currently opened programs, and the start menu, which allows you to open programs or utilities that are installed on your device.
It also supports multiple languages and allows you to change your language settings through the control panel. You can also install third-party input languages, such as those for East Asian languages or right-to-left scripts. This is helpful when troubleshooting problems, because it allows you to get a better picture of the environment in which the problem occurred.
Hardware compatibility
Hardware compatibility is the ability of an operating system to recognize and utilize physical components of a computer, such as CPUs and GPUs. Effective hardware compatibility ensures a smooth and stable computing experience. It also allows the OS to support new technological advancements.
For example, Windows 11 requires a PC to have a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0. This security coprocessor encrypts your data and authenticates hardware devices. You can check your PC’s hardware specifications with desktop utilities or command-line tools. This information can be helpful in troubleshooting or deciding whether to upgrade your hardware.
Microsoft offers a free tool called Windows Update Assistant to determine your system’s compatibility with new software and hardware. You can use this tool to install updates and run a free system scan. The tool can also detect hardware problems, such as outdated drivers. It can even recommend fixes for some of them. You can download the tool at Microsoft’s website.
Networking
The networking capabilities of the windows system have been improved over time. For example, Microsoft introduced HomeGroup in Windows 7 to make it easier for small workgroup environments at home to share music and pictures. It also enables computers to connect to a printer and protect shared files from guests or wireless network intruders.
Most modern operating systems can function as both network clients and servers. For example, Windows can run on the server or the desktop, and Apple’s Mac OS X comes in both client and server versions.
Windows users can enable Safe Mode with Networking to troubleshoot problems that would not be possible to diagnose or fix in normal mode. This mode loads only the most basic files and drivers, but enables networking capabilities so that you can access the internet and resolve issues. You can enable this mode by tapping the F8 key during startup. The timing is crucial, so you must tap the key immediately after the screen goes black.
Security
The windows system takes many security measures to protect against malware and other cyber threats. Regular updates help to keep the operating system and installed software up-to-date. In addition, anti-malware and antivirus tools provide real-time protection against viruses and spyware. The windows system also includes features that help to reduce the risk of data theft and fraud. These include phishing and tech support scam detection and prevention.
The windows system can be further enhanced by implementing hardware security enhancements such as Microsoft Pluton and Trusted Platform Module (TPM). These features ensure that devices have a secure, hardware root of trust that safeguards against firmware-level attacks and enables trusted execution. The windows system can also be configured to lock out accounts after a set number of invalid authentication attempts. This helps to prevent malicious actors from gaining unauthorized access to workstations by brute forcing passwords.