Windows 10

Popular desktop OS

Windows 10 is a version of the Microsoft Windows operating system released in 2015, succeeding Windows 8.

It restored the traditional Start menu while adding features like the Cortana virtual assistant and Microsoft Edge browser.

Windows 10 introduced a model of continuous updates rather than distinct version releases: My laptop is still running Windows 10.

interface

desktop

Primary computer interface

wallpaper · themes · icons · touchscreen · personalization · dark mode · light mode · lock screen · widgets · transparency

system

operating system

Software managing computer resources

  • kernelSeed or essential core
  • registryOfficial record of entries
  • driversVehicle operators or motivating forces

boot · filesystem · services · processes · system restore · Defender · PowerShell · recovery · safe mode · BIOS

updates

Redstone

Alabama Army installation

installation · upgrade · migration · servicing · driver updates

features

Start Menu

Windows app navigation panel

activation

license

Formal grant of permission

OEM · retail · upgrade path · system requirements · entitlement

Categories
Opposites
operating system ecosystem

Windows 10macOS

Apple computer operating system

Linux · open-source software · Ubuntu · Chrome OS · Debian

Windows version timeline

Windows 10Windows 3.1

1992 graphical operating system

MS-DOS · Windows 11 · Windows 95 · Windows 8 · Windows 7

Family

Windows, windowsill, tinted windows, Windows XP

Familiarity
Top 200,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G