Updated: July 14, 2020 (January 19, 2004)

Windows OS Roadmap Stretched

As managing vice president, Rob Helm covers Microsoft collaboration services and client software. His 25-plus years of experience analyzing Microsoft’s... more

The Windows 98, 98 Second Edition (SE), and Me client OSs will get support through 2006, Microsoft has announced. The two-year extension marks the latest shift in the company’s plans for releasing and retiring Windows versions, plans that are critical to organizations developing Windows software and supporting Windows users. Because no major new OS releases are likely until 2006 at the earliest, companies should expect ongoing updates to existing products for the next two years.

Latest Exception to Life Cycle Policies

Microsoft says continuing support for older Windows versions will particularly help customers in emerging nations, where dependence on these versions is greatest.

The decision draws attention to the company’s “life-cycle” support policies, which determine which software updates and support services are available for a product after its release, and for how long. These policies are important for organizations that must plan retirements of existing products, migration to new ones, and development of new applications and devices.

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