Windows 95
TLDR: Windows 95, introduced by Microsoft on August 24, 1995, was a revolutionary operating system that combined a graphical user interface (GUI) with DOS-based underpinnings. It marked a significant step in Microsoft's effort to make personal computing accessible to the masses, offering features like Plug and Play support, a taskbar, and the Start Menu, which became staples of Windows design. Windows 95 was also notable for its ability to run both 16-bit and 32-bit applications, bridging the gap between older systems and modern computing.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_95
Windows 95 introduced several innovations that simplified user interaction and improved system functionality. The Start Menu and taskbar provided intuitive navigation, allowing users to easily launch applications and manage tasks. Its Plug and Play feature automated hardware configuration, making it easier to install new devices without manual settings. With support for FAT16 and VFAT, Windows 95 improved file system performance and allowed for long file names, a significant improvement over previous versions.
https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/release-health
Connectivity was another key focus of Windows 95, which included built-in support for dial-up networking and the TCP/IP protocol, facilitating internet access. The Microsoft Network (MSN), launched alongside Windows 95, provided users with an online experience. By blending usability with advanced functionality, Windows 95 became a cornerstone in the evolution of personal computing, influencing later Windows versions and shaping the broader software industry.
https://www.kernel.org/doc/html/latest/admin-guide/
Windows 95