Microsoft Windows code named Longhorn Vision and principles

fabrice · #1 (**permalink**) 06-09-05, 05:41 PM

Longhorn

It's a new operating system that will replace various Windows XP modifications approximately in 2006. Unlike Windows XP and Windows 2000, based on different versions of the same kernel and having almost identical driver models, Longhorn promises considerable changes not only in its interface and API, but also in the heart of hearts of the system, in the kernel, memory and source management architecture. The new operating system will support two driver types (two driver models): one is retained for compatibility with the old drivers (XP/2000 model) and the second is new drivers, developed specially for Longhorn and next versions of this OS. This new model (a standard for drivers and their interaction with the OS kernel and API) is called LDM (Longhorn Driver Model). Its most important and interesting part is LDDM, responsible for all graphics (Longhorn Display Driver Model). All landmark graphics features will be implemented based on new LDDM drivers, old model drivers will be able to provide only the base-level (available in Win XP) of graphics hardware support.

It goes without saying that new applications can address old as well as new API, the old applications know only of the old API. APIs interact with the system and hardware (via drivers). The old drivers are installed in the compatibility mode via Windows XP driver interface (XPDM), new drivers ? in the new Longhorn mode (LDM).

Longhorn is a powerful new version of Windows that gives people what they've told us they want: a more powerful, more reliable, and more secure experience that makes it possible for them to use their computers more confidently and effectively, connect with others, and have fun.

At the center of Microsoft's vision for Longhorn are several key principles:

? Greater confidence and control. You spoke and we listened. Longhorn is the most powerful, most reliable, and most secure version of Windows ever. From home users to large enterprises, customers will find that Longhorn is easier to use, administer, and support which results in reduced costs of managing Windows desktops.

? More effective at work and at play. Ever lose a set of car keys? Frustrating, isn't it? As computers become a bigger part of everyday life, they hold more of life's artifacts ? and everything becomes harder to find. Longhorn helps you to navigate the complexity of life by instantly finding what you're looking for ?documents, media, e-mail, even previously viewed Web pages. And new tools in Longhorn help you to easily view and organize your information in the ways that make the most sense to you. With Longhorn, if you know anything about a item, you can find it. Except, maybe, those car keys.

? Next generation platform for connected living: In Longhorn we are making sure every experience is great for every person by integrating with the widest range of hardware, software and services. And Longhorn enables developers to target new business opportunities through the fundamental improvements made to the application development model. Longhorn offers new APIs that enable developers to build Windows applications faster and easier than before, as well as build new types of smart, connected applications.