(Apologies for cross-postings!)

Windows 98 has just been released by Microsoft, and Computing and
Information Technology (CIT) would like to take this opportunity to advise
you of our approach to support of Windows 98.

New Dell systems will be shipping with Windows 98 soon, and the retail
upgrade version is available now. We fully expect to support new systems
shipped with Windows 98. We will be gaining experience with these systems
as they arrive, and we will work with Dell to resolve any support issues as
quickly as possible.

Windows 98 upgrades, however, are another story. We DO NOT RECOMMEND
upgrading to Windows 98 at this time. Operating systems upgrades have
always been  somewhat problematic and Windows 98 upgrades are proving to be
the same. Please keep the following in mind if you are considering
upgrading to Windows 98:

        - Functionally, Windows 98 is not terribly different from Windows 95.
There is currently no overwhelming functional reason to upgrade to 98-
applications don't require it and the interface is overall very similar to
Windows 95.

        - You cannot Uninstall Windows 98 if the install is unsuccessful. You
will need to reformat your drive and start over with a clean install.

        - A clean install will generally be more successful than an upgrade. You
should be aware that this involves backing up your data, reformatting your
hard drive, installing and configuring Windows 98, installing and
configuring all your applications and restoring your data.

        - CIT is not currently providing assistance with Windows 98 upgrades or
resolving problems related to Windows 98 upgrades.  If you decide to go
ahead and upgrade to Windows 98, please be aware that you will need to work
independently with Microsoft to resolve any problems you may encounter.

        - CIT staff are gaining experience with Windows 98 and Windows 98
upgrades, and will be looking for a small number of collaborators.  If
you've recently purchased a Dell computer through UVM Microcomputer
Services and have received a Dell certificate for a Windows 98 upgrade, if
you're proficient with Windows upgrades, and if you want to upgrade as soon
as possible, please contact Dean Williams ([log in to unmask]) to
assess the feasibility of working on the upgrade together.

        - At some point in the future we may be comfortable recommending Windows
98 upgrades, but we strongly advise against it at this time.








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Computing & Information Technology