1981

The root of PC standards
IBM sets the standards for both personal computer hardware design and software development with the release of the first PC.

Microsoft sets its first--and most important--standard with DOS (Disk Operating System).

1985

Opening Windows
Microsoft releases the first version of the Windows operating system.

1990

The next generation
Microsoft releases Windows 3.0, universally acknowledged as the first "stable" version of its operating system. The firm sells millions of copies, essentially establishing a standard for PC operating systems.

The OS also introduces application programming interfaces, establishing market standards--including ODBC (Open Data Base Connectivity) and MAPI (Messaging Application Programming Interface).

1992

The Web is born
The World Wide Web is developed by Tim Berners-Lee and introduced by CERN (European Particle Physics Laboratory).

1993

Mosaic fits into the Net
The first Web browser, called Mosaic, is developed in a Midwestern dorm room by Marc Andreessen. Andreessen and his vision effectively gives birth to the Internet boom.

1994

Netscape takes over
Netscape Navigator, the first commercial implementation of Mosaic, catches on nearly overnight and sets the standard for browsing on the Internet. Navigator, Netscape Commerce, and Communications servers ship.

1995

Microsoft, others step up

Sun Microsystems' Java arrives on the scene, representing the first real challenge to the dominance of Microsoft Windows.

Internet service providers Compuserve, America Online, and Prodigy begin to provide Net access.

The first version of Microsoft's Internet Explorer ships with Windows 95, as chief executive Bill Gates realigns Microsoft's business around the Internet. Windows 95 includes more networking options, with support for TCP/IP to connect to the Internet and other common Windows APIs (Application Program Interface).

1997

IM on the scene
America Online introduces its Instant Messenger service, allowing users to "chat" in real-time online.

1998

Windows steps up
Windows 98 launches, with built-in Internet connectivity and a few upgrades, including native support for USB (universal serial bus, which allows for easier peripheral connections), DVD (digital versatile disc), and TV tuner add-in cards.

1999

The battles begin
Microsoft introduces its MSN Messenger, starting an instant messaging war with America Online. AOL forges an alliance with Apple Computer, while Microsoft calls for industry standards.