Software developers don't sleep. Even before ours were finished writing the code that powers Windows 98, they were readying the lines of software for the next version: Windows 98 Second Edition.

It updates Windows 98 by incorporating easier Web browsing, improved support and connectivity for hardware devices and the ability to create a home computer network.

Windows 98 Second Edition includes the Internet Explorer 5 browser, which improves your ability to find Web sites and store them easily into your favorites folders. When you move up to Second Edition, you'll also get NetMeeting 3, the collaboration and conferencing software that allows you to share audio, video and files with family, friends and colleagues around the world.

Your computer is just part of the "wired" experience. Maybe you'll want to plug in a scanner to send a photograph to a friend, attach a joystick to play games or hook up your video camera to edit the shots. Windows 98 Second Edition includes enhanced support for hardware devices complying with industry standards. For the technically minded, the beefed up support is for devices that meet Universal Serial Bus, Advanced Configuration and Power Interface and IEEE 1394.

Got two computers at home? You don't have to invest in two Internet connections, printers and the like. Windows 98 Second Edition has built-in software that, when used in conjunction with a home network kit, allows you to create a mini-network of PCs. By linking one or more older PCs to a computer equipped with Windows 98 Second Edition, the kids can share a high-speed modem, printer, scanner and other peripherals connected to your machine.

Watch for an announcement at this Web site next month of where you can purchase the complete Windows 98 Second Edition online.

Users who are already enjoying the benefits of Windows 98 can download the Windows 98 Service Pack from the Windows Update Web site for technical fixes, or they can purchase the same Service Pack fixes on CD. No new features are included in the Service Pack update.

For additional information, read the Windows 98 Second Edition Fact Sheet.