Microsoft, among the world's largest companies by market cap, was co-founded by which two people in 1975?

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Microsoft, among the world's largest companies by market cap, was co-founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen in 1975.

The pair created Microsoft after adapting BASIC programming language for the Altair 8800 personal computer. The company name was originally written as “Micro-Soft,” combining “microcomputer” and “software.”

Microsoft later became especially influential through MS-DOS, Windows, Office, and developer tools. Its business now also includes Azure cloud computing, Xbox gaming, LinkedIn, enterprise software, and artificial-intelligence services.

Microsoft's market capitalization reflects the value investors place on its expected future earnings, not the amount of money in its bank account. Its large software and cloud businesses generate recurring revenue, while its widespread enterprise relationships give the company a substantial global presence.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Oct. 2026

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