In what year was Windows 95 released?

Windows 95 was released in 1995. Microsoft released it to manufacturing on July 14, 1995, followed by its retail launch on August 24, 1995.

Windows 95 replaced Windows 3.1 and combined Microsoft's MS-DOS foundation with a substantially redesigned graphical interface. It introduced the Start menu, taskbar, Windows Explorer, desktop shortcuts, longer filenames, Plug and Play hardware support, and improved support for 32-bit applications.

The launch became one of the most heavily promoted technology events of the decade. Microsoft's campaign included the Rolling Stones song “Start Me Up,” whose title referenced the new Start button, along with midnight store openings and other high-profile promotions.

The name can cause confusion because Windows 95 had several release stages and later OEM service releases. Its initial retail availability was in 1995, while later updates appeared in 1996 and 1997. Windows 98 followed it in 1998, and Microsoft ended extended support for Windows 95 on December 31, 2001.