Windows NT 4.0, released in 1996, was a significant step for the NT operating system, integrating the user interface from Windows 95 for improved usability. It also included Internet Explorer as a standard web browser and moved components into kernel-mode for better performance, though this also impacted security and reliability. Here's a more detailed look: Key Features and Improvements: Windows 95 Interface: The user interface from Windows 95 was incorporated into NT, making it easier to use than previous versions of NT. Internet Explorer: Internet Explorer was bundled with NT 4.0, providing a web browser out of the box. Performance Improvements: Moving components into kernel-mode led to improved performance, though it also introduced some security and reliability trade-offs. New Features: The server edition of Windows NT 4.0 included features like Internet Information Services 2.0, Microsoft FrontPage 1.1, Remote Access Service (including PPTP server for VPN functionality), and Multi-Protocol Routing service. Microsoft Cluster Server: The Enterprise edition of NT 4.0 introduced Microsoft Cluster Server. Support for Modern Hardware: Despite its age, Windows NT 4.0 can be installed on modern hardware, even CPUs like Ryzen 9. Hardware Requirements: x86 Version: Required at least a 486 processor, 16 MB of RAM, and 110 MB of hard drive space (variable depending on installed components). Dropped 80386 Support: Windows NT 4.0 dropped support for 80386 processors. Installation: Allowed installation without a floppy drive via CD-ROM media, but a floppy drive was needed for making an Emergency Repair Disk or if not booting directly from the CD. Legacy Status: Windows NT 4.0 is no longer supported by Microsoft. It is considered a legacy operating system, with its official end-of-life reached in 2004. However, it is still used by some individuals and companies for specific needs, particularly in legacy system. Build RTM Rerelease - August 24, 2000 End of Life - November 31, 2013
Windows NT 4.0 R2 was available in four editions: Windows NT 4.0 R2 Professional (2000) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Workstation (2000) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Server (2000) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Advanced Server (2000) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Datacenter Server (2000) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Embedded (2003) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Enterprise Server (2000) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Terminal Server (2002) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Workstation Server (2002) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Workgroups (2001) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Home Basic (2000) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Home Premium (2000) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Ultimate (2004) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Business (2000) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Starter (2000) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Media Center Edition (2003) Windows NT 4.0 R2 FreeStyle (2003) Windows NT 4.0 R2 64-Bit Edition (2003) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Aurora (2007) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Service Pack 1 (August 21, 2000) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Service Pack 2 (December 10, 2000) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Service Pack 3 (February 20, 2001) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Service Pack 4 (March 30, 2002) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Service Pack 5 (November 20, 2002) Windows NT 4.0 R2 Service Pack 6 (March 13, 2003)
