Microsoft Corporation is an American multinational technology company that develops, manufactures, and sells software, hardware, and services. It was founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen on April 4, 1975, and is headquartered in Redmond, Washington. Microsoft is best known for its software products, including the Windows operating system, the Microsoft Office suite, and the Edge web browser.
The company's flagship product, Microsoft Windows, became the dominant operating system for personal computers in the 1990s, helping Microsoft establish itself as a leading force in the tech industry. Microsoft Office, launched in 1989, includes widely used applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The company has expanded its focus beyond software to include hardware products, such as the Surface line of tablets and laptops, and gaming through its Xbox consoles.
In recent years, Microsoft has shifted its focus to cloud computing with the launch of Azure, one of the leading cloud platforms globally. Azure offers a variety of cloud-based services, including computing power, storage, and networking. The company also provides enterprise solutions through services like Microsoft 365, a cloud-based version of Office that integrates with other business tools.
Microsoft has made significant acquisitions, including LinkedIn in 2016 and GitHub in 2018, to broaden its influence across professional networking and software development. The company also emphasizes artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and sustainability in its strategic goals.
As one of the largest technology companies in the world, Microsoft has a global presence with offices and data centers worldwide.
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