Microsoft is one of the world's leading technology companies, founded in 1975 by Bill Gates and Paul Allen. Headquartered in Redmond, Washington, Microsoft initially focused on software development, creating its flagship product, the Windows operating system. Over the years, the company expanded its offerings to include cloud computing, hardware, gaming, and productivity solutions. Microsoft's broad product portfolio includes Windows, Microsoft Office, Azure, Xbox, and LinkedIn, making it a key player in both consumer and enterprise technology markets.
With a customer-centric approach, Microsoft continues to evolve and innovate, providing cutting-edge solutions for businesses and individuals globally. In recent years, Microsoft has emphasized cloud computing, AI, and gaming, positioning itself as a leader in digital transformation. Today, Microsoft serves millions of users across the globe and employs over 220,000 people worldwide.
CEO and Founder of Microsoft
Microsoft was founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen in 1975 with the goal of developing software that could run on personal computers. Gates served as the CEO of the company until 2000, when he stepped down and assumed the role of Chief Software Architect. Today, Satya Nadella is the CEO of Microsoft, having taken over in 2014. Under Nadella’s leadership, Microsoft has transformed into a cloud-first company, with Azure becoming one of the leading cloud platforms in the world. Nadella has also overseen Microsoft's significant investments in AI and gaming, propelling the company's stock to new heights and growing its market value to over $2.4 trillion in 2024.
List of Top Companies Under Microsoft
Microsoft has acquired several companies to strengthen its portfolio in areas like cloud computing, gaming, social networking, and productivity. Here is a list of the top companies owned by Microsoft, along with their valuations:
| Company Name | Year Acquired/Founded | Valuation | Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 (Acquired) | $26.2 Billion | Social Networking/Business | |
| GitHub | 2018 (Acquired) | $7.5 Billion | Software Development |
| Skype | 2011 (Acquired) | $8.5 Billion | Communication Services |
| Minecraft (Mojang) | 2014 (Acquired) | $2.5 Billion | Video Games |
| Nuance Communications | 2021 (Acquired) | $19.7 Billion | AI and Speech Technology |
| ZeniMax Media (Bethesda) | 2021 (Acquired) | $7.5 Billion | Video Games |
| Yammer | 2012 (Acquired) | $1.2 Billion | Enterprise Social Networking |
| Flipgrid | 2018 (Acquired) | $120 Million | Educational Technology |
| Metaswitch Networks | 2020 (Acquired) | $N/A | Telecommunications |
| AltspaceVR | 2017 (Acquired) | $N/A | Virtual Reality |
FAQs About Microsoft
Q1: When was Microsoft founded and by whom?
A: Microsoft was founded in 1975 by Bill Gates and Paul Allen with the aim of developing software for personal computers.
Q2: Who is the current CEO of Microsoft?
A: Satya Nadella has been the CEO of Microsoft since 2014, leading the company through a successful period of cloud and AI growth.
Q3: What are Microsoft’s top products?
A: Microsoft is known for its Windows operating system, Microsoft Office suite, Azure cloud services, Xbox gaming consoles, and LinkedIn.
Q4: What is Microsoft’s market capitalization?
A: As of 2024, Microsoft’s market capitalization exceeds $2.4 trillion, making it one of the most valuable companies in the world.
Q5: What companies does Microsoft own?
A: Microsoft owns several companies, including LinkedIn, GitHub, Skype, Mojang (Minecraft), Nuance Communications, and ZeniMax Media.
Q6: What is Microsoft’s role in cloud computing?
A: Microsoft Azure is one of the top cloud computing platforms in the world, offering services such as computing power, storage, and AI solutions to businesses globally.
