operating systems?

No one else can make this decision. If Windows 98 does what you need, then you are done.

-> Where's the PC Hardware question?

Bob

You would need a second Windows 98 license to play it fair, even if you're happy with what Windows 98 has to offer you. It's not 'allowed' to reuse your existing registration key. I suppose a full Windows 98 cd with key can be found on eBay, and will be cheaper than a full Windows XP. I wouldn't advice ME or 2000, so the choice is 98(SE) or XP SP2.

There are people, however, willing to maintain that Linux is better than Microsoft Windows. It does have a GUI (even two, Gnome and KDE, if I remember correctly) with windows, just not the Microsoft one. And it's free (in principle).

Kees

...to use less than the best out there, Win XP Pro. Win2000 is based on the same kernel as XP and is great for interoffice networking, but XP Pro is the king for home/home office use. Don't bother with XP home, if you're getting a new OS get the latest PRO. You can configure XP to look & behave like 98/ME/2000 with a few taskbar/start menu properties changes, that's my choice since I work across both platforms.

You do NOT need to buy the boxed retail edition, www.pricewatch.com has 'OEM' (CD & COA only) XP PRo for about half the price. The only difference is if you need support it's $35/ session and well worth it. Do NOT purchase through OEM spammers, that is bootleg code & COA most of the time. Email me if you need help.

Tony