Windows 95: The German Company Still Using It
- Despite being released on August 24, 1995, Microsoft's Windows 95 continues too operate critical infrastructure in unexpected places.A poultry farm in Düsseldorf, Germany, relies on the decades-old...
- The Windows 95 system controls a considerable machine measuring 40 meters by 40 meters.
- While many companies have long as upgraded from Windows 95, certain industrial applications continue to benefit from its stability and predictability.
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Windows 95 Still Powers a German Poultry Farm’s Egg Sorting System
Despite being released on August 24, 1995, Microsoft’s Windows 95 continues too operate critical infrastructure in unexpected places.A poultry farm in Düsseldorf, Germany, relies on the decades-old operating system to manage it’s egg sorting process, classifying approximately 40,000 eggs daily. La Nación reported on this unusual continued use of the legacy system.
The Egg Sorting Machine: A 40×40 Meter Operation
The Windows 95 system controls a considerable machine measuring 40 meters by 40 meters. This machine is responsible for registering the weight, quality, and origin of each egg.The eggs are then automatically grouped into boxes containing either six or ten units. The continued reliance on Windows 95 suggests a significant investment in the existing hardware and software,and a lack of compelling reasons to migrate to a newer platform.
A typical egg sorting machine, similar to the one used at the German poultry farm. (Image for illustrative purposes only.)
Why Windows 95 Persists in Industrial Settings
While many companies have long as upgraded from Windows 95, certain industrial applications continue to benefit from its stability and predictability. Upgrading complex, mission-critical systems can be expensive, time-consuming, and possibly disruptive. If a system is functioning reliably, the risk of introducing new bugs or compatibility issues with a newer operating system may outweigh the benefits.
According to a 2023 report by Wired, Windows 95 and other legacy systems are often found in industrial control systems (ICS) due to their simplicity and the lack of internet connectivity, which reduces security risks. The poultry farm’s system likely operates in a closed network, minimizing exposure to external threats.
The Risks and Future of Legacy Systems
Despite the benefits of stability, relying on outdated systems like Windows 95 carries inherent risks.
