Code-named Chicago, Windows 95 is an operating system released by Microsoft in August 1995. It is the biggest release of Windows ever and still one of the most successful software releases ever.

New Windows 95 features

Windows 95 offered a completely new environment compared to Windows 3.11 with its new Start button and desktop. Below are other new features Windows 95 introduced, most of which are still used with current versions of Windows.

  • New Windows 95 features

  • Windows 95 system requirements

  • What Windows came before Windows 95?

  • What version of Windows came after Windows 95?

  • Related Windows 95 pages

  • Windows shortcut keys

  • Included Windows programs

  • Windows 95 help and support

  • Plug and Play - Plug and play allowed hardware devices to be automatically installed into the computer with the proper software. Does not require jumpers to be used.

  • Device Manager - Introduced Device Manager to help list and control computer hardware.

  • 32-Bit - A 32-bit operating system allowing the computer to run faster and more efficiently, and support 32-bit applications.

  • Registry - Combines the power of multiple configuration files into two registry files, allowing the system configurations to be located easier.

  • Memory - Windows 95 has an improved memory handling processes compared to Windows 3.11.

  • Right mouse click - Allows access and text manipulation by utilizing the right mouse button (right-click) instead of only one button.

  • CD Player - Enhanced CD Player with improved usability and AutoPlay feature.

Windows 95 system requirements

80386 DX or higher4 MB RAM35 MB hard drive spaceCD-ROM or floppySound Blaster compatible sound card.VGA or higher-resolution100% compatible Microsoft keyboard and mouseDOS 5.0 and higher needed for an upgrade

What Windows came before Windows 95?

For the end user, Microsoft 3.11 came before Windows 95.

What version of Windows came after Windows 95?

For the end user, Microsoft Windows 98 came after Windows 95.

Operating system terms, Win9x, Windows 95B

  • Windows 95 setup switches
  • Basic Microsoft Windows 95 troubleshooting.
  • Windows shortcut keys
  • Windows versions
  • Windows 95 help and support.
  • Microsoft Windows history.