Branislav Bukmirović’s journey with computers began in 1985, when he navigated the complexities of the MS-DOS operating system, typing out commands to launch applications. This routine was a staple of the computing world until a pivotal moment arrived on August 24, 1995, with the launch of Windows 95. For Bukmirović, now a 65-year-old retiree after a distinguished career at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering in Belgrade, this operating system marked a significant turning point.
“It was the first time I saw a single system controlling the entire computer,” he recalls. “The mouse became the primary tool, which was a shock for me.” He describes Windows 95 as a revolutionary leap, a transformation that he considers the most significant technological advancement until the advent of smartphones.
The introduction of Windows 95 brought forth a series of innovations, including a graphical user interface that featured the iconic “Start” button and desktop icons, elements that remain integral to modern computing. According to Miloš Ivanović, a professor at the Faculty of Science and Mathematics in Kragujevac, Microsoft’s software democratized computer usage, making it accessible to both home and business users. It unified essential computing elements, allowing users to focus less on the technicalities and more on productivity.
‘Revolution’
For Bukmirović, the initial experience with Windows 95 was overwhelming. “The first month was agonizing,” he admits, but soon, the ease of use transformed his workflow. “You didn’t need extensive knowledge; you could teach someone how to save, delete, or print with just a click.” The operating system’s user-friendly interface, complete with a new graphical layout, was a game changer.
With the introduction of features like the “Start” menu and automatic hardware recognition—known as Plug-and-play—the computing experience became significantly more streamlined. Ivanović humorously notes that while it was initially dubbed Plug-and-pray due to its early imperfections, today’s systems operate seamlessly as soon as devices are connected.
However, the transition to Windows 95 wasn’t without its challenges. The system’s 32-bit architecture required upgraded hardware, leaving many users like Bukmirović needing to invest in new components to fully utilize the operating system.
‘Cultural phenomenon’ and the computer boom
The launch of Windows 95 was not just a technological milestone; it was a cultural event. Released at midnight on August 24, 1995, the event featured the Rolling Stones’ classic “Start Me Up” and promotional appearances by stars from the hit TV show Friends. This marketing blitz, which cost Microsoft 0 million, positioned the operating system as a blockbuster rather than mere software.
Within a year, Windows 95 became the most widely used operating system, solidifying Microsoft’s dominance in the market. Ivanović explains that this success not only entrenched Microsoft in homes but also funded further innovations, leading to the development of subsequent operating systems like Windows NT and Windows XP.
Bill Gates, the company’s co-founder, saw his wealth soar during this period, with his fortune jumping from .9 billion in July 1995 to .8 billion by October. By the end of the decade, Microsoft had established itself as the world’s leading software company.
A window into the world of the internet
While the Internet had been in existence since the late 1960s, Windows 95 marked a significant milestone by integrating it into the operating system. This integration made the Internet more accessible to everyday users, eliminating the need for specialized tools and technical knowledge. Ivanović highlights the impact of Internet Explorer, which became synonymous with Windows 95 and played a crucial role in the mainstream acceptance of the Internet.
For Bukmirović, the ease of accessing the Internet transformed his experience. “You no longer had to initiate a process through DOS; it was readily available with a click,” he explains. However, the initial version of Internet Explorer faced criticism for its limitations, and Microsoft’s decision to phase it out in favor of MS Edge in 2015 marked a significant shift in the browser landscape.
As Windows 95 gradually gave way to newer versions like Windows 98 and Windows 2000, its legacy as a bridge to the future of computing remains undeniable. Rico Mariani, a former Microsoft engineer, aptly described it as “the most important operating system in history,” emphasizing its role in shaping the era of desktop computing that continues to influence technology today.
