In April 2025, Bill Gates thrilled tech enthusiasts by releasing the Altair BASIC source code to mark Microsoft’s 50th anniversary. Consequently, this historic piece of programming—written in 1975 by Gates, Paul Allen, and Monte Davidoff—offers a fascinating glimpse into the origins of personal computing. However, accessing this code isn’t as simple as clicking a button. So, how can you get your hands on it? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can explore this iconic artifact with ease.
Why the Altair BASIC Code Matters
Before diving into the “how,” let’s first understand the “why.” Originally crafted for the Altair 8800 microcomputer, this Intel 8080 assembly language code was Microsoft’s debut product. Moreover, it sparked a revolution, making computers more accessible to hobbyists. Now, fast forward to 2025—Gates shared it via his Gates Notes blog, calling it “the coolest code I’ve ever written.” Thus, accessing it connects you to a pivotal moment in tech history.
Step 1: Visit the Gates Notes Website
To begin, head straight to the source. Specifically, Gates published the Altair BASIC code on his personal blog, Gates Notes, on April 2, 2025. Therefore, open your browser and navigate to gatesnotes.com. Once there, look for the post titled something like “The Coolest Code I’ve Ever Written” (the exact wording might vary). Alternatively, use the site’s search bar—type “Altair BASIC source code” and hit enter. As a result, you’ll quickly locate the anniversary blog post.
Quick Tip: Bookmark the page for easy access later!
Step 2: Find and Download the PDF
Next, let’s get to the code itself. Within the blog post, Gates provides a direct link to a 157-page PDF titled “Original-Microsoft-Source-Code.pdf” or similar. For instance, it might appear as a bolded hyperlink saying “Download the code here.” Simply click it, and the file will begin downloading to your device. Meanwhile, ensure you have a PDF reader installed—like Adobe Acrobat or your browser’s built-in viewer—to open it later. Consequently, this step is straightforward but crucial.
Note: The file is a scanned document, not editable text, preserving its historical authenticity.
Click Here to download the code: Original-Microsoft-Source-Code
Step 3: Explore the Code’s Contents
Now that you’ve got the PDF, what’s inside? Essentially, it’s a digital time capsule of 1975 programming. For example, you’ll see lines of Intel 8080 assembly language, complete with Gates’ and Allen’s handwritten notes. However, don’t expect to copy-paste it into a modern editor—it’s an image-based scan of old printouts. Nevertheless, flipping through the pages reveals the ingenuity behind fitting a BASIC interpreter into 4 kilobytes. Thus, it’s both a technical marvel and a nostalgic treat.
Highlight: Look for quirky annotations that hint at the duo’s coding process!
Step 4: Share or Use the Code (Optional)
So, you’ve accessed the code—what’s next? If you’re a content creator, consider sharing it with your audience. For instance, upload the PDF to a cloud service like Google Drive, set it to “Anyone with the link can view,” and embed the link in your blog or social media. Alternatively, if you’re a coder, transcribe snippets into text using OCR tools (e.g., Google Lens) for analysis or emulation. However, always credit Gates Notes as the source. As a result, you’ll enrich your project while honoring the original release.
Pro Tip: Pair it with an Altair 8800 emulator for a hands-on experience!
Troubleshooting Access Issues
Sometimes, things don’t go smoothly. For example, what if the link is broken or the post is hard to find? First, double-check the date—April 2, 2025—and search Gates Notes again. Alternatively, Google “Bill Gates Altair BASIC source code Gates Notes April 2025” to find mirrored links or news coverage from sites like CNET or PCMag, which reported on the release. Moreover, if the PDF won’t download, ensure your internet connection is stable. Thus, persistence pays off!
Why This Process Is Worth It
In conclusion, accessing the Altair BASIC source code is more than a tech task—it’s a journey into Microsoft’s roots. By following these steps, you’ll not only secure the 157-page PDF but also connect with a legacy that shaped today’s digital world. Whether you’re a historian, programmer, or curious reader, this code offers inspiration and insight. So, head to Gates Notes, download it today, and step into 1975. After all, who wouldn’t want to explore “the coolest code” from Bill Gates himself?