Microsoft Corporation is a global technology company headquartered in Redmond, Washington, best known for its software products and services. Founded in 1975 by Bill Gates and Paul Allen, Microsoft initially gained fame for its MS-DOS operating system, followed by the hugely popular Microsoft Windows operating systems. Over time, Microsoft expanded into other software, including Microsoft Office, and enterprise services, such as Azure, its cloud computing platform.
Microsoft is also a leader in hardware through products like the Xbox gaming console, Surface devices, and partnerships in augmented reality with HoloLens. The company is known for its strategic acquisitions, such as LinkedIn, GitHub, and Activision Blizzard, which have helped diversify its portfolio. Microsoft emphasizes innovation in AI, cloud computing, and enterprise solutions, remaining one of the largest and most influential companies worldwide.