A Brief History of Microsoft
microsoft is one of the world’s largest technology companies, producing hardware, software and cloud services. Its products are used in millions of homes and businesses, and its innovations have revolutionized the way we work and play. Its corporate social responsibility initiatives aim to make the world a better place.
The company was founded in 1975 by Bill Gates and Paul Allen, childhood friends from Seattle. They were influenced by the Altair 8800, a primitive early personal computer that used a BASIC programming language. They began working on a BASIC compiler for it and later created MS-DOS, an operating system that ran on PCs. In the 1980s, they developed Windows OS, which dominated the market, and introduced the Office suite of programs, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint. They also created a division that produced electronic books and magazines, including the Encarta multimedia encyclopedias.
In the 1990s, the company expanded into the Internet industry with its Internet Explorer web browser and its Windows Live online services. It also released the Office productivity suite of programs, which boosted its business and became an essential tool for the modern workplace. In the 2000s, it diversified into new technology fields with the Xbox video game console and the Windows Phone mobile operating system. It also invested in developing new technologies, such as cloud computing and artificial intelligence.
After achieving success in the computer business, it started to face competition from new technology firms, such as Google and Apple. Some of these companies complained that the company’s business practices, such as bundling its programs with its operating system, violated laws against unfair competition. Despite these setbacks, Microsoft continued to grow and invest in research and development.
Its newer products include the Surface tablet, Lumia smartphone and HoloLens smartglasses. Its software includes Windows OS, Office 365 business productivity suite, Skype for Business, Bing search engine and Azure cloud computing platform. The company also owns LinkedIn, the professional networking website, and makes its money primarily by selling ad space on its websites.
Since its founding, Microsoft has focused on creating innovative technology that empowers people to achieve more. While the company’s success has enriched its shareholders, it also aims to make the world a better place by supporting social initiatives and providing technological solutions for global problems. This mission is reflected in its slogan, “To the world, we bring the power to connect and transform.” Its core values center around building trust, empowering people, and embracing diversity. Its employees strive to live up to these ideals in their daily work and are encouraged to develop creative ideas at the workplace. This has helped the company become one of the most admired and respected brands in the world. Its technology is widely used in schools, government agencies, businesses, and many other industries. It has become the benchmark for other technological companies and is regarded as an innovation leader in both its operating systems and its cloud services. The company has received numerous awards and recognition from industry and media outlets.
