Everyone keeps asking why I don't upgrade to WinXP or Win2000 from my good old Win 98 SE. I keep telling people it's no use upgrading to a new Microsoft OS until at least Service Pack 2 is released. I've been a computer tech since 1987 and this mantra has held well for me. All these latest worms due to Microsoft security flaws seem to justify this decision. If people would stop bleating about the fact that they get these worms because they refuse to update despite good publicity on news and online about the updates, then all of the techs would be happier. ALWAYS remember to update. It's unforgivable with the auto update features built into Windows XP if you haven't updated. I've been cleaning out viruses this week at $100 a pop for people that could EASILY have avoided them by simply enabling the auto update feature (and MANY who knew about this). Even Windows 98 users should make sure that all the critical updates are installed at all times. It's simple to do (although NOT automatic). Simply select "Windows Update" from the Start menu on your desktop, then select "Scan for Updates" on the Microsoft Website, and then select "Review and Install". This may have to be done several times until the number of critical updates reads (0), and should be done at least ONCE A MONTH, or immediately if you hear of a security issue in the media.

Yep, most of these things are virtually self inflicted. Add to the list a firewall and a sensible approach to attachments and internet usage. Last thing I ever had was Happy99 virus (pretty harmless) on my previous W95 machine. These forums have been an excellent source of knowledge. By following the kind of points made above, and a few more, my machine has stayed clean. To "some" extent W9x is actually safer than XP because most nasties are now being aimed at the latter. Some still wreck W9x too, but not all. Derek.W