The Windows 98 Service Pack 1, which includes bug fixes and year 2000 upgrades for the Windows 98 operating system, is now available on CD via Microsoft Australia's Web site (www.microsoft.com/australia/buyit/windows) at a cost of $13.95. Alternatively, save your money and install it for free from our cover CD.

Plans for the service pack were in the works for some time, but the release of Windows 98 Second Edition, which includes some new features and costs, caused confusion and rumours. Microsoft attempted to clarify what it was doing with postings on its Web site.

The service pack is an alternative for users who don't want to buy the second edition of the operating system. "If you're not interested in Windows 98 Second Edition's new features, but you'd like to freshen up your original version of Windows 98, there are some ways you can," a statement from Microsoft said.

The service pack includes a system update that fixes problems related to the universal serial bus (USB) and networking capabilities, among others. It also contains Internet Explorer 4.01 Service Pack 2, including a security fix for that browser version, and updates for Internet-related functions, year 2000 compatibility and year 2000 Outlook Express.