Introduction

Working in Windows is more fun and productive than ever. The World Wide Web is easily accessible from anywhere in Windows. Enhancements to the desktop, taskbar, and Start menu help you open shortcuts and programs quickly. New features help you work faster and more efficiently, while the new design of Windows 98 makes it the most customizable, usable version of Windows yet.
Windows 98 is the first true 32 bit Operating System that Microsoft has developed, it is also shipped with most new systems available at this time. It has the Graphical User Interface (GUI) that experienced users have become accustomed to. The GUI means that you are working with a point a click system using the mouse rather than the much more difficult to master command line. For inexperienced users this translates into a system with much greater ease of use and a easy learning curve.
The most important new developments are the 32 bit FAT (File Allocation Table) which greatly improves the compactness of the file system allowing for more storage space. Also there is a System Task Scheduler which allows you to schedule routine maintenance tasks to be done automatically when you are not on your computer. This is a real boon to users who are inexperienced, or forgetful, like me, to make sure that your system is always running at its top efficiency.
Even if you're new to Windows, it's easy to get started. The following illustration introduces the basic elements of the Windows 98 desktop. The desktop is the workspace that appears on your screen. You use your desktop for almost any task: opening programs, copying files, connecting to the Internet, reading your e-mail, and so on. What you see on your desktop varies depending on how Windows 98 is set up on your computer.
If you're familiar with previous versions of Windows, you'll immediately notice that some familiar elements have changed. If you're already working in Windows 95, the transition to Windows 98 is smooth. Windows 98 refines the look and design of Windows 95 to make it easier for you to work, and the new interface provides quicker access to the Internet than ever before.
Easier Access to the Internet
Using Windows 98, connecting to the Internet is simple-all of the tools you need are right at hand.
  • ·Get connected to the Internet in minutes. If your computer isn't already connected to the Internet, the Connect to the Internet icon appears on your desktop. Simply double-click this icon and the Internet Connection wizard guides you through choosing an Internet service provider (ISP) and installing any necessary software.
    • ·· Browse the Internet using the latest technology. Experience the advanced technology available on the World Wide Web, including live multimedia and full support for ActiveX and other interactive content.
    • · Type Internet addresses anywhere. You can get to the Internet from any window in Windows 98 or even from the taskbar-all you have to do is type an address in the Address Bar.
    • · Show Web pages on the Active Desktop. You can now customize your desktop by using a Web page, or any other HTML document, as wallpaper.
    • · Subscribe to your favorite Web sites. By subscribing to your favorite Web site, you can schedule times for Windows 98 to automatically check the site on a regular basis and notify you when the site is updated. In addition, Web pages that you subscribe to can be automatically downloaded to your computer or sent via e-mail. By subscribing to your favorite Web sites, you take the hassle out of downloads, connect times, and busy Web servers.
    • · Receive the latest Web content through channels. Using channels, you can view content from the world's premier entertainment and business content providers. A channel is a Web site that delivers content straight from the Web to your computer.
    • · Save time and money by reading offline. With one click, you can simultaneously disconnect from the Internet and temporarily store the current Web page on your computer. You can later read the stored content at your leisure, which can save Internet connection expenses.
    Click on the link below to install the PowerPoint Viewer to make it possible to see the instructional slideshows on this disk.
    PowerPoint Viewer
    Once you have this file installed you can click on the link below to view an introduction to the Desktop. When the show is over exit the viewer by clicking on the X in the upper right hand corner, this will bring you back to this window.
    Introduction to the Desktop
    As you saw on the desktop there is a Welcome to Windows Dialog Box - more on these later. With this you can do some of the tasks you need to do as well as take a tour of Windows 98 to see what it offers. I would recommend this tour to new computer users.