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IN BRIEF
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In the vast world of computing, two names are obvious to anyone who uses a keyboard: Microsoft And Windows. Yet many confuse these terms, often considering them interchangeable. In truth, Microsoft is the pioneering company that was born in the mind of a certain Bill Gates, while Windows is the famous operating system, a sort of gateway to the digital world, marketed by this same company. Let’s decipher the mysteries hidden behind these names and discover together their true functions.
When we talk about technology, the terms Microsoft And Windows often seem related. However, they designate distinct entities. This article explores the relationship between Microsoft, the company, and Windows, its famous operating system. We will dissect their respective roles, their characteristics and the way they interact with each other.
Microsoft: The technology company
Microsoft is a company founded in 1975 by Bill Gates And Paul Allen. Since its beginnings, it has evolved and established itself as a major player in the field of IT. The company specializes in the development of software, online services, hardware and business solutions. Among its best-known products are productivity tools such as Microsoft Office, database management systems, as well as cloud computing platforms.
Microsoft Inc. is not limited to a single product or service, but offers a range of offers, particularly via its subscription model Microsoft 365. The latter allows users to benefit from the latest updates of productivity applications. In short, Microsoft represents a vast technological enterprise much more complex than simple software.
Windows: The operating system
On the other hand, Windows is the famous operating system developed by Microsoft. First released in 1985, Windows forms the core of the user experience for many PC users around the world. It allows you to manage hardware resources, run programs and provide a graphical user interface, making computer use more accessible and intuitive.
Since its first version, Windows has undergone multiple evolutions, with notable versions such as Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows 10, and the very latest, Windows 11. Each of these updates has brought its share of improved features and has able to adapt to the needs of modern users. Thus, Windows has become synonymous with computers for many consumers around the world, but it does not represent the whole of what Microsoft does.
Interdependent relationships
It is essential to note that Microsoft and Windows have a very close relationship. interdependent. Microsoft, as a company, develops and markets the Windows operating system. However, Windows is just one of many products that Microsoft offers. So, while Windows can often be seen as the company’s showcase, it should not overshadow the diversity of Microsoft’s other areas of activity.
For example, Microsoft has also diversified into sectors such as cloud computing with Azure, gaming with Xbox, and even online productivity with tools like Teams. This diversity is what allows Microsoft to remain relevant in the continued evolution of technology.
The different Microsoft products
Beyond Windows and its desktop applications, Microsoft offers a wide range of products. Among them, we find Microsoft Office, which provides the world’s most widely used word processing, spreadsheet and presentation applications. This software exists in a classic version, but also in the form of a subscription via Microsoft 365, which ensures permanent access to the latest features and updates.
In today’s world where remote work is booming, Microsoft also offers online storage services such as OneDrive, which allows users to backup and share their files securely. Besides, if you are hesitating between OneDrive and Google Drive, you can learn more about their comparison here.
To summarize, although Microsoft and Windows are often used interchangeably, it is essential to understand their difference. Microsoft is the company that designs, develops and markets a multitude of technological products of which Windows is just one example. Other products like Microsoft Office, Microsoft 365 and OneDrive also contribute to the company’s stature in the IT world.
If you would like to further explore the role of a Microsoft account and how it can optimize your experience with Microsoft products, visit the website Microsoft here.
Finally, if you want to compare the different versions of Windows 11, you can do so by visiting this link: Windows 11 comparison.
The world of technology is vast and ever-changing, and understanding the difference between Microsoft and Windows is an important step in navigating this exciting world.
Key Differences Between Microsoft and Windows
| Criteria | Details |
| Kind | Microsoft is a company, while Windows is a product. |
| Main function | Microsoft develops software, Windows is an operating system. |
| Creation | Microsoft was founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen. |
| Related products | Microsoft offers Office, Azure, etc. Windows is a part of its ecosystem. |
| Economic model | Microsoft adopts a subscription model for certain services, Windows is purchased. |
| Evolution | Microsoft evolves with various technologies, Windows mainly changes in versions. |
| Sustainability | Microsoft remains crucial in the IT sector, Windows is omnipresent on PCs. |
- Microsoft : company specializing in computer science.
- Windows : operating system developed by Microsoft.
- Microsoft : sells various software.
- Windows : part of Microsoft’s product offering.
- Microsoft : founded by Bill Gates And Paul Allen.
- Windows : first version launched in 1985.
- Microsoft : offers subscription services such as Microsoft 365.
- Windows : evolves with new versions like Windows 11.