Microsoft is a multinational technology corporation headquartered in Redmond, Washington, founded in 1975 by Bill Gates and Paul Allen. It is renowned for developing and selling a wide range of software, hardware, and services, including the Windows operating system, which powers billions of personal computers worldwide; the Microsoft Office suite for productivity tasks like word processing and spreadsheets; Azure cloud computing platform for businesses; and consumer products such as Xbox gaming consoles and Surface tablets. The company plays a pivotal role in the tech industry, driving innovations in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and enterprise solutions, while also engaging in philanthropy through initiatives like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. With a global workforce exceeding 200,000 employees, Microsoft emphasizes accessibility, sustainability, and digital transformation, influencing modern computing and daily life profoundly.