Introduction
Microsoft Corporation, a multinational technology company, has significantly shaped the personal computer industry. Founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen in 1975, it has grown from a small startup to one of the world's most valuable companies. This blog post explores Microsoft's key milestones, innovations, challenges, and its profound impact on the technology landscape.
Early Years (1975-1985)
Microsoft was established on April 4, 1975, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, by Bill Gates and Paul Allen. Their first product, Altair BASIC, was a programming language for the Altair 8800 microcomputer, marking the start of Microsoft's software journey ([Microsoft History](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Microsoft)).
In 1979, Microsoft relocated to Bellevue, Washington. In 1980, a pivotal partnership with IBM led to the development of MS-DOS, the operating system for IBM's first personal computer, setting the stage for Microsoft's future dominance.
Growth and Expansion (1985-1994)
In 1985, Microsoft launched Windows 1.0, introducing a graphical user interface for MS-DOS. Though initially modest, it paved the way for future Windows versions. In 1986, Microsoft went public, raising $61 million, significantly boosting its financial strength ([Microsoft IPO](https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/april-4/microsoft-founded)).
Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, was introduced during this period. Windows 3.0, released in 1990, sold over 100,000 copies in two weeks, cementing Microsoft's market presence.
Dominance in the Market (1995-2007)
Windows 95, released in 1995, was a landmark, introducing the Start menu and taskbar, selling over a million copies in four days. However, Microsoft faced antitrust lawsuits in the late 1990s from the U.S. and EU for monopolistic practices ([Antitrust Case](https://www.britannica.com/money/Microsoft-Corporation)).
Despite legal challenges, Microsoft innovated with Windows XP in 2001 and entered gaming with the Xbox console, broadening its technological footprint.
Modern Era (2007-Present)
Windows Vista, launched in 2007, faced criticism for performance issues, but Windows 7 in 2009 regained user trust. Under CEO Satya Nadella, appointed in 2014, Microsoft pivoted to cloud computing and AI, acquiring LinkedIn in 2016 and GitHub in 2018 ([Nadella Leadership](https://news.microsoft.com/facts-about-microsoft/)).
Today, Microsoft leads in operating systems, productivity software, cloud services, and gaming, maintaining its relevance through continuous innovation.
Questions and Answers
1. Who founded Microsoft?
Microsoft was founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen on April 4, 1975.
2. What was Microsoft's first product?
Microsoft's first product was Altair BASIC, a programming language for the Altair 8800 microcomputer.
3. When did Microsoft go public?
Microsoft went public on March 13, 1986, raising $61 million at $21 per share.
4. What is Microsoft's most successful product?
The Windows operating system is considered Microsoft's most successful product, dominating the PC market for decades.
5. Who is the current CEO of Microsoft?
As of 2023, Microsoft's CEO is Satya Nadella, leading since February 4, 2014.
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