Windows 98 in easy steps

Have you thought of upgrading to Windows98? It's very similar to Win95. Same desktop; same screen and icons; and not a lot that's really new, except things like the capacity to run two monitors simultaneously, plus automatic updating via Internet connection, which has been viewed as a rather dubious feature. After all, do you really want Microsoft to upgrade all its software on your system without your say-so?

This is a special double-thick edition of a Computer Step publication. Many topics are presented across a double-page spread instead of the usual single page. Michael Price begins with an introduction to Windows 98, including the different versions available, then covers the desktop and its features, integrating the Internet and System tools. One chapter is dedicated to Dial-Up Networking and the ISDN Configuration wizard.


There's also instruction provided for customising the layout such as file views and defining shortcuts, and installing applications including information on AutoRun installation and Install Programs wizard.

It's well illustrated and written in a simple, direct manner as usual - with tips and cautions highlighted in the page margins. However, some of the writing is (for the non-technical) a little cryptic. One of the Handy Tips reads: " LFN entries are given attributes RSHV. Because of the Vol attribute, MS-DOS will ignore the entries."

Win98 will incorporate the latest medium - DVD players - which it treats like a CD-ROM, and there are all the features you would expect in a guide aimed at non-specialists. It offers clear explanations of installation procedures, disk management, and of course the Microsoft Office 2000 suite. The frightening Windows Registry is wisely left to the end.

This is a lot more technical than Computer Step's usual 'Dummies Guide' approach - with explanations of disk partitioning, compression, and file allocation tables (FATs). However, these are cheap-and-cheerful, good-value books - commendable in their clarity and good introductions for beginners who don't want to be weighted down with 800-page manuals with no pictures. If you're upgrading or have just bought a new system, this book will probably pay for itself in time saved within a couple of weeks.