The X Window System, also known as X11, is marking its 40th anniversary this week, and its significance in the world of computing cannot be overstated. Developed in the early 1980s, this window system played a crucial role in enabling interactions with space-facing instruments and revolutionizing the way computers were used in college computer labs.

Astrophysics professor Robert Lupton, from Princeton University, reminisces about his experience with X11 during its early days. Being one of the few individuals well-versed in computers at the time, it fell on Lupton's shoulders to troubleshoot and address questions regarding X11. In a recent interview, Lupton revealed that he first wrote the X10r4 server code, which later evolved into X11. He regarded X11 as the go-to solution for any graphics-related requirements, allowing for the incorporation of buttons and displays.

X11's importance was further cemented when Robert W. Scheifler and Jim Gettys at MIT developed a window system for the VS100 as part of Project Athena. This project aimed to create a distributed computing environment across various hardware platforms, making X11's platform independence a perfect fit. Scheifler modified existing code from W, making the interface asynchronous and significantly faster, and ultimately named it X.

For Princeton University, X11's cross-platform compatibility was invaluable. In his guide, Lupton emphasizes that X11 provides "tools, not rules," resulting in a wide range of possibilities and configurations. He offers helpful tips, such as the significance of modifier keys and the correct way to start X11 using the xinit command instead of typing X.

Reflecting on X11's endurance after four decades, Lupton believes its success can be attributed to its functionality compared to other alternatives available at the time. Additionally, Princeton's limited network connectivity during that era mitigated traffic issues that some users experienced with X11. The focus back then was more on command lines rather than graphical user interfaces, and X11's portability across different systems, such as VAX and Sun Microsystems, made it a dependable choice.

As X Window System celebrates its 40th anniversary, its continued relevance and impact in the field of computing are undeniable. The legacy of X11's versatility and reliability lives on, shaping the way users interact with graphical interfaces and serving as a testament to its enduring success.