Microsoft will end support for Windows 98, Windows 98 Second Edition, and Windows Millennium (ME) on July 11, 2006. What does that mean for those who use one of these operating systems? It means that Microsoft will no longer provide any updates, official technical help, or fixes for the operating systems. You will, however, be able to receive self-help through the Microsoft Support Web site for at least another year. According to a press release on it’s Web site, Microsoft feels that these aging operating systems pose security risks and urges customers to upgrade to a new, more secure operating system (such as Windows XP). A PC World article reported that almost 25% of surveyed PC customers use one of the three operating systems being phased out.
Do I need to upgrade?
If you use Windows 98, Windows 98 SE, or Windows ME, you may want to seriously consider upgrading your operating system. Technically, support for the Windows 2000 operating system has already ended, even for those with the latest service pack 4, though Microsoft has sent out a few security updates and may continue to do so for another few months.
It may seem that Microsoft is just trying to make more money by releasing all of these operating systems. While that may be true in part, the main reason for upgrading operating systems it to help make your computer more functional and secure. Windows XP is light years ahead of earlier Microsoft operating systems in terms of security features. Even thought we see almost weekly news reports describing the security flaws of Windows XP, as a whole the operating system provides a more secure base than Windows 98, for example.
Use good security practices
You will need to supplement any operating system security features with your own security practices. For example, firewall, antispyware, and antivirus software are a must for any computer. You should also be careful of constantly leaving your Internet connection on with your computer connected to it. Unless you require your Internet connection to be continuously on (if you us Internet phone services such as Vonage), it is a good idea to turn off your cable or DSL modem at least overnight. That way there is no way your computer can be attacked through the Internet connection.