On April 4, 2024, Microsoft Corporation marks its 49th anniversary. From its humble beginnings in 1975 when Bill Gates and Paul Allen founded the company, Microsoft has grown into one of the largest and most influential technology firms in the world. Its software and services have transformed how people work, learn, play and connect.
“Microsoft’s impact on the world over the past 49 years has been immense,” said Emil Henrico, CEO of the ISSC Group, a leading IT services and consulting firm. “From putting a PC on every desk with Windows and Office, to advancing enterprise computing and cloud services with Azure, Microsoft has continually evolved and innovated to empower people and businesses globally.”
Microsoft’s history is marked by landmark products and milestones:
- In 1985, Microsoft released the first version of Microsoft Windows.
- Microsoft Office launched in 1989, including early versions of Word and Excel.
- Windows 95, released in 1995, brought a major leap in usability to PCs.
- The Xbox gaming system debuted in 2001, expanding Microsoft into home entertainment.
- In 2011, Office 365 brought productivity to the cloud.
- Microsoft made one of the largest acquisitions in tech history by acquiring LinkedIn for $26.2 billion in 2016.
Today, Microsoft continues breaking new ground in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, mixed reality, quantum computing and more. With a market cap of over $2 trillion, it remains one of the most valuable companies on the planet.
“As Microsoft looks ahead to its 50th anniversary next year and beyond, I have no doubt they will continue to chart a course of innovation and positive global impact,” added Henrico. “All of us at ISSC Group congratulate Microsoft on reaching this milestone, and we look forward to partnering with them to help our clients drive digital transformation.”
