Why was Microsoft Windows written in C, which is the language of UNIX and Linux?

As an experienced tutor registered on UrbanPro.com, I specialize in Unix Training and online coaching. Let's delve into the question regarding why Microsoft Windows was written in C, a language commonly associated with UNIX and Linux.

Background:

• Microsoft Windows is an operating system developed by Microsoft, primarily for personal computers.
• Unlike Unix and Linux, which are open-source and POSIX-compliant, Windows has a different architecture and design philosophy.

Choice of C Language:

1. Portability:

   • C is known for its portability, allowing code to be easily adapted across different platforms.
   • Microsoft aimed for a versatile operating system that could run on various hardware, making C a suitable choice.

2. Compatibility:

   • Many Unix and Linux systems are developed in C, fostering compatibility between Windows and existing C-based applications.
   • This decision facilitated the adoption of Windows in environments where Unix-based systems were prevalent.

3. Efficiency and Performance:

   • C is a low-level language that provides direct access to memory, enabling efficient system programming.
   • Windows needed to be efficient and performant, especially in comparison to its competitors, and C offered the necessary control over system resources.

4. Large Developer Community:

   • The extensive use of C in Unix and Linux systems meant a vast pool of experienced C developers.
   • Choosing C made it easier to attract skilled developers to work on the Windows platform.

Cross-Platform Development:

• Microsoft has also embraced cross-platform development in recent years.
• Initiatives like Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) allow developers to run Linux applications natively on Windows, showcasing a shift towards interoperability.

Conclusion:

In summary, the choice of C for developing Microsoft Windows was influenced by factors such as portability, compatibility, efficiency, and the availability of a large developer community. While Windows and Unix/Linux have distinct design philosophies, the use of C facilitated a level of interoperability and developer support that contributed to Windows' success in the computing landscape.