In this 1994 interview with David Rensin, Gates discusses Microsoft’s position in the rapidly developing software industry and explains his thinking about technology, competition and business strategy. He describes the importance of software to personal computing, Microsoft’s relationship with IBM, the development of DOS and Windows, and the need for technology companies to keep improving their products. He also responds to criticism of Microsoft’s market power and discusses his direct management style.

A substantial part of the interview looks ahead to what Gates calls the information highway: networked systems through which people could find information, communicate, obtain entertainment and make decisions electronically. He considers privacy, interactive media and the wider social effects of digital networks. The conversation also covers his childhood, education, family, marriage, reading habits and wealth, including his intention to give most of his fortune away. The interview presents both his business outlook and his expectations for the emerging information age.