Microsoft introduced Windows 2000 as a major overhaul of its Windows 95 and 98 operating systems. Although Windows 2000 is a powerful OS, it is likely too out-of-date for most computers, and will only benefit older systems.

Significance

Windows 2000 offers upgrades and benefits in just about every category, from performance to computer security and file management, over Windows 98 and earlier Windows Operating Systems, reports PC manufacturer Gateway.

Key Benefits

Windows 2000 streamlines the installation of hardware and software, reducing the number of serious errors in the system, reports Gateway. Windows 2000 also secures the computer with data encryption, adding a new layer of Internet security.

Fun Fact

Gateway reports that Windows 2000's built-in browser, Internet Explorer 5.0, loads websites 20 percent faster on average than any previous versions. However, Microsoft has revised Internet Explorer a number of times since Windows 2000's release; the latest revision is Internet Explorer 8.

Tips

Microsoft suggests that users thinking of upgrading any Windows operating system check the Microsoft Compatibility Center to make sure that their hardware works with Windows 2000.

Considerations

Microsoft no longer updates Windows 2000 and considers it a "legacy" system. As of 2009, Windows 7 is the most current of Microsoft's operating systems and much more advanced than 2000.

Source:

Gateway; What are the features and benefits of Windows 2000?

Microsoft; Compatibility Center