Dell Technologies History Timeline and Biographies

1984

Foundation of Dell Computer Corporation

Dell Computer Corporation was founded by Michael Dell while he was a student at the University of Texas at Austin. Initially operating under the name PC's Limited, the company focused on selling IBM PC-compatible computers built from stock components.

1988

Initial Public Offering (IPO)

Dell Computer Corporation went public, raising $30 million and increasing its market capitalization to $85 million. The IPO marked a significant milestone in the company's growth.

1992

Fortune 500 Entry

Dell Technologies, then known as Dell Computer Corporation, entered the Fortune 500 list of the largest companies in the United States, highlighting its rapid growth and success in the computer industry.

1996

Launch of Dell.com

Dell launched its first e-commerce website, Dell.com, revolutionizing the way computers were sold and allowing customers to configure and purchase PCs online directly from the company.

2004

Michael Dell Steps Down as CEO

Michael Dell stepped down as CEO, handing over the reins to Kevin Rollins. Dell remained as Chairman of the Board, focusing on strategic initiatives.

2007

Michael Dell Returns as CEO

Michael Dell returned as CEO to lead the company through a period of transformation and to address various operational challenges.

2009

Acquisition of Perot Systems

Dell acquired Perot Systems, a technology services provider, for $3.9 billion. This acquisition marked Dell's expansion into IT services.

2013

Dell Goes Private

Michael Dell and Silver Lake Partners completed a leveraged buyout of Dell, taking the company private in a deal valued at approximately $24.4 billion. This move was intended to allow Dell to focus on long-term growth without the pressures of public market scrutiny.

2015

Acquisition of EMC Corporation

Dell announced its intent to acquire EMC Corporation for $67 billion, the largest technology acquisition in history. This deal aimed to broaden Dell's product offerings in data storage and cloud computing.

2016

Formation of Dell Technologies

Following the completion of the EMC acquisition, Dell Technologies was formed as the parent company of Dell, EMC, VMware, Pivotal, SecureWorks, RSA, and Virtustream, creating a comprehensive technology powerhouse.

2018

Return to Public Markets

Dell Technologies returned to public markets through a complex financial restructuring involving the buyout of VMware tracking stock, simplifying its ownership structure and enhancing its financial flexibility.

2019

Acquisition of VMware Shares

Dell Technologies increased its stake in VMware, further solidifying its position in the cloud infrastructure and digital workspace markets.

2020

Launch of Dell Technologies Cloud

Dell Technologies introduced Dell Technologies Cloud, a suite of cloud infrastructure solutions designed to simplify hybrid cloud environments and accelerate digital transformation for businesses.

2021

Spin-off of VMware

Dell Technologies announced the spin-off of VMware into an independent company. This move was intended to unlock value for shareholders and allow both companies to focus on their respective growth strategies.

2023

Acquisition of Cloudify

Dell Technologies acquired Cloudify, a cloud orchestration and automation company, to enhance its cloud services and capabilities, further strengthening its position in the multi-cloud environment.

2024

Expansion into AI and Edge Computing

Dell Technologies announced significant investments and partnerships to expand its offerings in artificial intelligence (AI) and edge computing, positioning itself as a leader in next-generation technology solutions.