Introduction
Microsoft Corporation is a global technology company that develops, manufactures, licenses, supports, and sells a wide range of software, hardware, and services. Founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen in 1975, Microsoft has become one of the largest and most influential companies in the world.
Software
Microsoft is best known for its operating system, Windows, which is used by over 1 billion people worldwide. The company also develops productivity software such as Microsoft Office, which includes applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Hardware
In addition to software, Microsoft produces a range of hardware products, including the popular Xbox gaming console, Surface tablets, and accessories like keyboards and mice.
Cloud Services
Microsoft has been a leader in cloud computing with its Azure platform, which provides infrastructure as a service, platform as a service, and software as a service to businesses around the world. The company also offers services like Office 365, which allows users to access Office applications and storage in the cloud.
Case Study: Microsoft Acquisition of LinkedIn
In 2016, Microsoft acquired LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional networking site, for $26.2 billion. This acquisition has allowed Microsoft to integrate LinkedIn’s vast network of professionals with its own productivity tools, creating new opportunities for collaboration and networking for users.
Statistics
- Microsoft has annual revenues of over $125 billion
- Windows operating system runs on over 80% of all computers worldwide
- Microsoft has over 150,000 employees in more than 100 countries
