Key Points on Windows Multitasking Evolution

Pre-Windows 95 Era

• Windows operated on Cooperative multitasking.
• Apps had to manually release CPU access for others to run.
• If an app crashed, it retained CPU access, causing entire system crashes and requiring restarts.
• This multitasking method proved to be cumbersome and unreliable.

Introduction of Windows 95

• Transitioned to Preemptive multitasking.
• The operating system managed CPU access, allowing smoother app switching.
• If an app froze, it could be closed without shutting down the system.
• 32-bit architecture was introduced.
  • Supported more RAM.
  • Facilitated more efficient multitasking.

Conclusion

• Windows 95 significantly improved the multitasking experience and system reliability compared to its predecessors.