Windows 98
Windows 98 is a consumer-oriented operating system developed by Microsoft Corporation as part of its Windows 9x family. Released on June 25, 1998, Windows 98 was designed to be a user-friendly operating system that incorporated a range of enhancements and features aimed at improving the user experience and providing support for new hardware technologies.
Features and Enhancements
Web Integration and User Interface
Windows 98 was notable for its web integration, bearing several similarities to its predecessor, Windows 95, but introducing several enhancements. It included the Windows Desktop Update, which offered the ability to view folders and files as web pages, providing a more seamless integration between the desktop and the Internet. One of the prominent features was the Quick Launch bar, giving users the ability to quickly open applications and switch between windows. The Address Bar allowed users to access URLs directly from the desktop environment.
System Utilities and Hardware Support
Windows 98 introduced several utilities and support for emerging hardware technologies. These included:
- Disk Cleanup: A utility designed to free up disk space by removing unnecessary files.
- Windows Update: An integrated service that automated the downloading and installation of updates.
- Enhanced USB support: Allowing easier peripheral connections, which was crucial for the proliferating USB devices.
- Multi-monitor support: Enabling users to extend their desktop across multiple display monitors.
- Internet Connection Sharing: To allow multiple computers on a local network to share a single internet connection.
Advanced Features
Windows 98 was the first Windows version to adopt the Windows Driver Model, standardizing the interface for hardware drivers to improve support and stability across different types of hardware. It also included DVD player support, aligning with the technological advancements in digital media.
Software Enhancements
Windows 98 incorporated several enhancements from the Microsoft Plus! pack, such as themes and system utilities, which were designed to enhance the aesthetic and functional capabilities of the operating system. It also included shell enhancements like LiteStep, which allowed for more customizable desktop environments.
Legacy and Impact
Windows 98 was succeeded by Windows Me, marking the end of the Windows 9x series before the transition to the more stable and robust Windows NT-based architecture with Windows XP. Windows 98 played a crucial role in the transition from DOS-based systems to more integrated and user-friendly graphical operating systems, setting a precedent for future developments in personal computing.