Windows 98 Second Edition

Windows 98 Second Edition

Table of contents

Introduction

Windows 98, a significant release from Microsoft, was introduced on June 25, 1998. As the successor to Windows 95, it brought numerous improvements and new features that were well-received globally. Being the second major release in the Windows 9x family, Windows 98 was designed to be consumer-friendly, offering enhanced web integration and support for the rapidly evolving internet landscape of the time.

It was the first version of Windows to include the Windows Driver Model, which standardized driver programming and improved system stability. With features like improved USB support, Internet Connection Sharing, and the Quick Launch bar, Windows 98 aimed to provide a more intuitive and seamless user experience. It also introduced the FAT32 file system, allowing for larger hard drives and better disk space management.

Despite being marketed as a “tune-up” to Windows 95, it was positively received for its ease of use and resolution of many issues present in its predecessor. Windows 98 went on to sell an estimated 58 million licenses and received an update with Windows 98 Second Edition (SE) released on June 10, 1999.