Windows 2000 (W2K) OS

Windows 2000 is a 32-bit operating system developed by Microsoft, released in February 2000.

Key Features:

1. NT-based: Built on Windows NT technology, providing improved stability.

2. Multi-user support: Supports multiple users with separate accounts.

3. Active Directory: Introduced Active Directory for centralized management.

4. Plug and Play: Enhanced hardware detection and installation.

Editions:

1. Professional: For business users and professionals.

2. Server: For server environments, supporting network services.

3. Advanced Server: Enhanced server edition with additional features.

4. Data center Server: For large-scale data centers and enterprise environments.

Impact:

1. Stability: Improved stability compared to previous Windows versions.

2. Security: Enhanced security features, including Kerberos authentication.

3. Networking: Improved networking capabilities, including support for TCP/IP.

Legacy:

Windows 2000 played a significant role in shaping modern Windows operating systems, with its influence still visible in later versions.

Windows 2000 is no longer supported by Microsoft, but it remains an important part of computing history.