Microsoft Windows 1.04 was released in April 1987 and brought support for the IBM System/2 computers. This revolutionary software began Microsoft’s graphical user interface (GUI) journey.

It wasn’t a standalone operating system; rather, it required Microsoft DOS to function as its base platform. Users had to have MS-DOS installed on their computers before running Windows 1.

Windows 1x Description:

Priced at $100 during its release, Windows 1.04 was originally codenamed Interface Manager. Thanks to the vision of Microsoft’s marketing lead, Rowland Hanson, the product was officially branded as Windows. This release laid the groundwork for future iterations that would dominate the personal computing landscape.

Windows 1.04 brought innovative features for its time. While simplistic compared to modern standards, it provided users with a graphical interface. UI was a significant leap from the command-line interface offered by DOS.

Notable features of Windows 1.04 include:

• Graphical User Interface (GUI): Introduced a visual layer to simplify interaction with the computer.
• Keyboard and Mouse Support: Enabled users to navigate using a mouse, a novelty for many at the time.
• Application Integration: Windows 1.04 came bundled with essential tools like:
  • Calculator (CALC.EXE)
  • MS Paint (PAINT.EXE)
  • Command Line Interface (COMMAND.EXE)
  • A DOS-based File Manager

These applications empowered users to perform basic computing tasks to pave the way for more sophisticated software in subsequent versions.

How to Install Windows 1.04 from a USB or CD?

Installing Windows 1.04 on modern systems requires creating a bootable USB drive or CD. Tools like Rufus or KMSPico make it easy to prepare these drives. Follow these steps to get started:

1. Prepare Your Bootable Media:

   • Use tools such as Rufus to create a Windows 1.04 bootable USB or CD.

2. Plug in the Bootable Media:

   • Insert the USB or CD into the computer’s respective port.

3. Access the Boot Menu:

   • Restart your computer and press the boot menu key (often F9).

4. Load Installation Files:

   • Select the USB drive or CD from the menu and press any key to proceed.
   • Wait for the installation files to load.

5. Follow On-Screen Instructions:

   • The installer will guide you step-by-step to complete the installation process.

How to Install Windows 1.04 on Virtual Machines?

For enthusiasts or developers, installing Windows 1.04 on a virtual machine provides a safe way to explore this historical software. Popular virtualization tools such as VirtualBox or VMware make it possible.

How to Install Windows 1.04 On VirtualBox?

1. Download Required Files:

   • Download and install VirtualBox on your system.
   • Obtain the Windows 1.04 ISO image from a trusted source.

2. Create a New Virtual Machine:

   • Open VirtualBox and select “Create New Virtual Machine.”
   • Choose the ISO image and proceed with the default settings.

3. Start the Virtual Machine:

   • Launch the virtual machine to boot from the ISO file.
   • Complete the setup using the guided installer.

How to Install Windows 1.04 On VMware?

1. Install VMware Software:

   • Download and install VMware if you don’t already have it.

2. Load the ISO File:

   • Select the Windows 1.04 ISO image while setting up a new virtual machine.

3. Begin Installation:

   • Start the virtual machine and follow the installation steps as prompted.

Note: The installation process on virtual machines closely resembles installing it on a physical computer.

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Download Windows 1.04 bootable disc image

Windows_1.04_eng.zip