Microsoft Windows Systems - All versions

Microsoft Windows - the most popular OS for PC devices in the world

First announced in 1983, Microsoft Windowswas released as a graphical extension of Microsoft’s previous operating system, MS-DOS. Windows 1.0, the first iteration of Windows as we know it, appeared in 1985, and wasn’t very popular. It did, however, include the prototype versions of some apps we know and love, including Windows Paint (a precursor to MS Paint) and Windows Write, a simple word processor that would evolve into Microsoft Word.

The first Windows system that was greatly successful was Windows 3.0, released in 1990. It improved and extended many native applications, made multitasking easier, and introduced virtual memory. It sold over 10 million copies in the UK and worldwide in the first two years after being released, and was supported all the way until 2001.

The real breakthrough happened when Microsoft released Windows 95, introducing 32-bit architecture and Plug and Play compatibility. It added a redesigned user interface with shortcuts and a new desktop, similar to what Mac OS added at the time. 

All the different versions of Windows

Windows product keys are available in a whole range of versions - from Windows XP all the way to Windows 11. When looking for a new operating system for one of your devices, these are the most popular Windows systems you can currently purchase:

• Windows 7 (Home Premium, Professional, Ultimate)
• Windows 8/8.1 (Regular and Pro)
• Windows 10 (Home, Professional, Enterprise)
• Windows 11 (Home, Pro)

Older versions of Windows are not available for sale anymore. Windows systems up until and including Windows 7 are no longer supported and don’t receive any security updates. If you’re going to use Windows 7 or older, make sure you’re using a third-party antivirus and anti-malware software to protect your PC when browsing the Internet. 

Windows 11is the latest version of Windows operating system, although not even close to being the most popular. Over 72% of Windows users are on Windows 10, with only 11% on Windows 11 as of 2022. In fact, more people still use Windows 7 than Windows 11. Even though Windows 11 has been out for over a year, its popularity leaves a lot to be desired. The main cause of this is that Windows 11 has considerably higher hardware requirements than Windows 10, and many users simply don’t qualify. Those who do are not thrilled either, as Windows 11 met a lot of criticism in the last year since its release.

Are there any alternatives to Windows for PC?

For home users, there are very few alternatives to Windows when it comes to the operating system market for PCs, with 75% of all PCs using Windows. But what if you don’t want to overpay for a PC or laptop with Windows pre-installed? Are there any alternatives?

There are, in fact, many free operating systems that are great alternatives to Windows - but they might require a good dose of technical know-how to properly install and use. Most of these systems are built on the Linux kernel - an operating system’s core, developed and distributed for free. One of the most popular Linux distributions is Ubuntu - a free and open-source OS with support for.

Although, of course, buying a cheap Windows key from Key-Soft would be simpler and quicker. 

How expensive are Windows systems?

The retail price of Windows operating systems can reach as high as £219.99for Windows 11 Pro edition, and older Windows versions can be expensive as well! Windows 8 and below are not available for purchase from Windows Store anymore, making them unavailable except pre-installed on devices and at product key resellers. 

Instead of overpaying or having to buy a whole new device, you can find Windows activation keysat Key-Soft.co.uk for Windows 7 and newer versions, all at affordable prices - only a fraction of the full retail price! Key-Soft guarantees a safe shopping experience and immediate delivery by email. Depending on your product, your key will be available for online or phone activation.