Windows Evolution
The Windows API is supported on several Windows versions. Having several distinct Windows versions can be confusing, but from the programmer's perspective, they are similar. In particular, they all support subsets of the identical Windows API. Programs developed for one system can, with considerable ease, run on another, resulting in source and, in most cases, binary portability.New Windows versions have added small amounts of new API functionality, although the API has been remarkably stable since the beginning. Major themes in Windows evolution include the following.
- Scalability.
Newer versions run on a wider range of systems, up to enterprise servers with large memories and storage systems. - Integration.
Each new release integrates additional technology, such as multimedia, wireless networking, Web Services, and plug-and-play capability. This technology is, in general, out of scope for this book. - Ease of use.
Improved graphical desktop appearance and ease of use are readily apparent with each release. - Enhanced API.
Important API enhancements have been added over time. The API is the central topic of this book.