About Microsoft
Microsoft Corporation develops, licenses and supports a broad range of software products, services and devices. Known for Windows, Office, Azure cloud, Surface hardware and Xbox gaming. The company focuses on enabling digital transformation for individuals and organizations.
FoundedApril 4, 1975
FoundersBill Gates & Paul Allen
HeadquartersRedmond, Washington, USA
FocusCloud computing, software, AI, devices
Timeline — Highlights
1975
Founded
Bill Gates and Paul Allen found Microsoft in Albuquerque, NM.
1985
Windows 1.0
Microsoft releases the first version of Microsoft Windows.
1990s
Office & Enterprise
Office suite and enterprise software expands Microsoft's reach.
2001
Xbox
Microsoft enters gaming with the Xbox console.
2010s
Cloud & Devices
Azure grows; Surface devices launch; major acquisitions.
2020s
AI & Cloud Era
Strong focus on cloud infrastructure, AI integration and productivity platforms.
Flagship products
Windows
Operating system family for PCs, tablets and hybrid devices.
Microsoft 365 (Office)
Cloud-connected productivity apps: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams and more.
Azure
Cloud platform for infrastructure, data, AI and services.
Xbox
Gaming consoles, services and Game Pass subscription.
Surface
Hardware line: laptops, tablets and accessories.
GitHub & Developer Tools
Acquired GitHub; strong developer ecosystem and Visual Studio tools.
Values & strategy
Microsoft emphasizes cloud-first, mobile-first transformation, responsible AI, accessibility and broad ecosystem partnerships. The company invests in AI research, cloud infrastructure and developer platforms while maintaining enterprise and consumer products.