Early computers were operated using panels, switches, and plugboards.
The concept of batch processing emerged, where a series of jobs were submitted together, and the computer processed them sequentially without user interaction.
Examples: UNIVAC I and IBM’s SSEC.
2. 1950s — 1960s: Single-User Systems
The concept of time-sharing was introduced, allowing multiple users to interact with a computer simultaneously.
IBM’s OS/360 was a significant development, providing a comprehensive operating system for mainframes.
3. 1960s — 1970s: Multiprogramming and Multiuser Systems
Multiprogramming became more prevalent, allowing multiple programs to run concurrently.
Unix, developed at Bell Labs by Ken Thompson and Dennis Ritchie, introduced the idea of a modular, multitasking, and multiuser operating system.
4. 1970s — 1980s: Personal Computers and GUIs
The emergence of personal computers led to the development of operating systems like CP/M and MS-DOS.
Apple introduced the Apple Macintosh in 1984, featuring a graphical user interface (GUI).
Microsoft Windows 3.0 (1990) brought GUI to the PC, marking the beginning of widespread GUI adoption.
5. 1980s — 1990s: Networking and Client-Server Systems
Novell NetWare and Microsoft Windows NT introduced networking features.
The client-server model gained popularity with the rise of networked systems.
6. 1990s — 2000s: Rise of Linux and Windows Dominance
The Linux operating system, developed by Linus Torvalds, gained popularity as an open-source alternative.
Microsoft Windows became the dominant desktop operating system with versions like Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000, and XP.
7. 2000s — Present: Mobile Operating Systems and Cloud Computing
The 2000s saw the rise of mobile operating systems like iOS and Android for smartphones and tablets.
Virtualization technologies became more prevalent, enabling the creation of virtual machines.
Cloud computing platforms, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure, became popular.
8. 2010s — Present: Advances in Operating Systems
The development and widespread adoption of Windows 7, 8, and 10, as well as macOS and various Linux distributions.
Mobile operating systems evolved with the introduction of iOS 7, Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich), and subsequent versions.
The emergence of containerization technologies like Docker and orchestration tools like Kubernetes.
Advances in security features, including enhanced encryption and secure boot processes.
Continued development of real-time operating systems (RTOS) for embedded systems and IoT devices.
9. 2020s — Ongoing: Continued Evolution and Specialized Systems
Ongoing development of operating systems to address emerging technologies, such as quantum computing and edge computing.
Continued emphasis on security and privacy features.
Further integration of AI and machine learning into operating systems for improved automation and decision-making.
