Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) is a Microsoft technology that provides a standardized way to access and manage system information in Windows operating systems. It allows users and applications to query and control various aspects of the system, such as hardware, software, and network settings, through a consistent interface. WMI uses a set of protocols and a common data model to facilitate communication between different components. This enables system administrators to automate tasks, monitor system performance, and gather information about system resources, making it a valuable tool for managing Windows environments efficiently.