1990s · RETRO HISTORY
Windows 95 and the Start Menu Revolution
How one operating system changed the look and feel of everyday computing.
Editor's note: This is an original introductory guide. Hardware revisions, software compatibility and preservation conditions can vary by model.
A different desktop
Windows 95 launched in August 1995 with an interface that made common tasks easier to discover. The Start button, taskbar and desktop shortcuts became familiar features for many PC users.
The Start button
The new interface helped people find applications, switch between windows and manage files without memorizing as many commands. Hardware support and installation were not always smooth, but the overall experience felt like a major shift.
Why it mattered
The design helped define what people expected from a home computer for years afterward. Its visual language remains instantly recognizable today.