How to Install and Configure KernelEx + Updates for Windows 98

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KernelEX
KernelEX Updates

Resources

Last Version of Software for Windows 98
KernelEx Compatibility List

Windows Millennium Edition Myths

all windows versions have issues. No release has been perfect especially in the windows 9x series. Windows Millennium Edition stylized as windows ME and later shortened to Win ME is regarded as one of the worst in computer history. Certainly, the entirety of Microsoft history and they have had some blunders windows millennium or MS Millennium released September 14, 2000, wasn't bad so much as consumers were upset by the removal of real mode dos. At the time the windows dos connection was critical to a majority of users. Have you ever heard of a Window ME boot disk probably not, because access to real mode dos was restricted from the user millennium edition had some great features from windows media player to windows movie maker and the ever-important system restore!

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Windows ME Updates
Windows ME Boot Disk 

How to Setup and Browse the Internet in MS-DOS in 2020

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Arachne
mTCP
Cute Mouse Packet Drivers for DOS

At Last, The Secret To improving Windows 3.1 screen resolution Is Revealed

By default, the screen resolution sizes are low. For the time these were common screen resolutions, but today we can do better. It doesn't matter if you are using DOSBox or VirtualBox

Download Links:

Pre-patched Display Driver

Display Driver

Driver Patch

Windows for Workgroups 3.11 Networking with VirtualBox

Download Links:

Trumpet Winsock

Windows 2000 Updates STILL Exist in 2021!?

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Windows 2000 Automatic Update Repair Toolkit

Automatic Updates for Windows 98 in 2021

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Auto Patcher for Windows 98 

How to Install Windows 95 on a Modern Computer

Sources:

The Microsoft KB Article on the issue

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AMD K6 Patch for CPUs faster than 350 MHz

Automated Installer Package by Lonecrusader

How to Enable USB Support for MS-DOS

Driver Download:

MS-DOS USB Drivers

How to Solve the Vista Check for Updates Getting Stuck

Download Links:

REQUIRED:
KB3205638: http://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/Search.aspx?q=KB3205638 Vista
KB4012583: http://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/Search.aspx?q=KB4012583 Vista
KB4015195: http://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/Search.aspx?q=KB4015195 Vista
KB4015380: http://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/Search.aspx?q=KB4015380 Vista

OPTIONAL (if IE9 is installed):
KB4014661: http://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/Search.aspx?q=KB4014661

Excellent article that explains solutions to more issues with Windows Update. Affiliate Link

Installing Windows 98 Display Drivers for Virtualbox

I will show you how to install Windows 98 display drivers in VirtualBox. This is a necessary step if you want to get the best possible display performance from your Windows 98 virtual machine. I will be using the SciTech Display Doctor driver, which is a free and open-source driver that supports high color and other advanced features. I'll walk you through the process step-by-step, and I'll also provide links to the necessary drivers.

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Video:How to Install Windows 98 Display Drivers in VirtualbBox - YouTube

Scitech Display Doctor 7

Note: Some users may get a Windows Protection Error after Installing the Scitech Display Doctor Driver in Windows 98SE. This Video Tutorial explains the process for fixing that error.

Installing Windows 7 Service Pack 2

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April 2015 servicing stack update for Windows 7

Convenience rollup update for Windows 7 SP1

Installing the Windows 7 Convenience Rollup

For Windows 7 users searching for updates, you might have encountered the term "Windows 7 Service Pack 2." Let's clear the air: Microsoft only released one official service pack, Service Pack 1 (SP1). So, what's the deal with SP2?

A History of Service Packs

Back in the days of Windows NT 4.0 and 2000, service packs were common. These updates bundled bug fixes, security patches, and sometimes even new features. Windows XP had three service packs, and Vista had two. However, Microsoft is moving away from this model towards a more continuous update approach.

Remember Windows 8.1? It was essentially a service pack disguised as a standalone update. The same goes for Windows 10 updates with numbers like "2004" – they're service packs delivered differently.

Windows 7 and the Convenience Rollup

Microsoft released a "Convenience Rollup" update in 2016 that can be mistaken for SP2. This update bundles most security patches and bug fixes released after SP1, up to April 2016.

Installing the Convenience Rollup

If you're using Windows 7 and haven't installed the Convenience Rollup yet (important for security!), here's a breakdown:

1. Service Stack Update: Before diving in, install a specific Service Stack Update from 2015. This ensures your system can handle the larger update.
2. Convenience Rollup Installation: Download the Convenience Rollup from the official Microsoft website (avoid untrusted sources!). Double-click the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions. Be patient, as the installation can take some time.
3. Post-Installation Updates: While the Convenience Rollup covers a significant chunk, there might still be additional patches needed. These could include updates released after April 2016 or specific updates like Internet Explorer 11 or the latest .NET Framework. Run Windows Update to catch these.

Remember: The Convenience Rollup is valuable, but it doesn't replace keeping your system updated with the latest security patches through Windows Update.

Important Note: Extended security updates (ESUs) for Windows 7 ended in January 2020. This means Microsoft no longer provides security patches. Upgrading to a supported operating system like Windows 10 is highly recommended for continued security and performance improvements.

Conclusion: Keeping Windows 7 Secure (as much as possible)

While Windows 7 isn't getting official security updates anymore, the Convenience Rollup can help patch vulnerabilities discovered before April 2016. However, for the most secure experience, consider upgrading to a supported Windows version.

Keeping Your XP Alive: A Guide to Re-Enabling Automatic Updates

Download Links:

Microsoft Visual C++ 2012 Redistributable (x86)
Windows Update Agent 7.6.7600.256
Latest Windows Update Agent 7.6.7600.256 (x86)
Internet Explorer 7/8, or Microsoft IDN Mitigation APIs
WSUS_Proxy_NT5
Windows Update MiniTool

Let's face it, Windows XP was a phenomenal operating system. Released in 2001, it brought stability, ease of use, and a familiar interface to millions. But time marches on, and Microsoft officially ended support for XP in 2014. This means no more security updates, leaving your system vulnerable to ever-evolving online threats.

However, for some users, XP remains a cherished companion on older machines. Here's the good news: with some effort, you can still enable automatic updates on Windows XP, even in 2024.

Why Bother?

You might be wondering, why update an unsupported system? Here's the reason: security patches. While Microsoft won't be issuing new ones, there are still critical vulnerabilities that haven't been addressed. These gaps in your system's defenses make you a prime target for malware, viruses, and other online nasties. By enabling automatic updates, you can patch these holes and improve your XP system's overall security.

The (Not-So-Automatic) Journey Begins

Now, enabling automatic updates on XP in 2024 isn't a walk in the park. Microsoft has decommissioned most of the infrastructure that XP relied on. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Open a Browser: Fire up a browser like New Moon (since Internet Explorer is no longer supported by Microsoft).

2. Gather the Updates: We need a few crucial updates to get things rolling. First, download the Microsoft Visual C++ 2012 Redistributable Package. Install it and let it work its magic. Next, grab version 7.6 of the Windows Update Agent. Download and install that as well.

3. Internet Explorer Shenanigans: We can't escape Internet Explorer entirely. Download and install Internet Explorer 8. Brace yourself – this might take a while and involve a reboot. Once that's done, there's another update waiting for IE 8 – grab and install that too.

4. The Windows Update Mini Tool: This is a lifesaver. Download the Windows Update Mini Tool, a third-party application that acts as a bridge between your XP system and the (somewhat defunct) Windows Update server.

5. Run the Batch File: Once everything is installed, locate the downloaded batch file and run it. This allows your system to communicate with the update server. If prompted by the firewall, unblock the connection. Keep this command prompt window open – it facilitates the update download process.

6. Launch the Mini Tool: Now, open the Windows Update Mini Tool. Click the "Check for Updates" button, and in a few moments, you'll see a list of available updates. These are the security patches your system craves!

7. Automatic, (Almost): Here's the beauty – if you leave the command prompt window open, the Automatic Updates feature in XP will (somewhat surprisingly) start downloading and installing the updates itself, just like the good old days. Alternatively, you can download them manually through the Mini Tool.

A Final Word

Congratulations! You've successfully re-enabled automatic updates on your Windows XP system. Remember, this is a workaround, not a perfect solution. Microsoft no longer actively supports XP, so these updates might be limited or stop working entirely in the future. It's highly recommended to upgrade to a supported operating system for optimal security and functionality. However, if you must stick with XP for now, this guide provides a temporary safety net.

Additional Considerations

• Security Software: While updates help, consider installing a reputable antivirus program designed for XP.
• Limited Functionality: Be aware that some features and programs might not work as intended on an unsupported OS.
• The Future: While this method works today (March 2024), there's no guarantee it will continue to function indefinitely. Upgrading is the safest option in the long run.

By following these steps and understanding the limitations, you can keep your trusty XP system a little more secure in a world that has (officially) moved on.

How to Safely Use Windows XP FOREVER!

Download Links

Windows XP Service Pack 3

Avast for Windows XP

Roytam1 Browser Installer

The Study from 2013 

EMET 41 for Windows XP

 

While Windows 10 may be the standard today, some people still rely on Windows XP. Even though Microsoft no longer supports XP, there are ways to minimize risk and use it somewhat safely. Here's a guide:

Windows Updates:

Since Microsoft stopped supporting Windows XP in 2014, there are no new security patches available. However, there might still be a few critical updates on the Microsoft website. These updates fix vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit to access your system or steal your data. Installing these critical updates is essential to minimize the security risks of using XP.

Be very cautious of unofficial updates offered online. These service packs or registry hacks often claim to update XP with security patches from newer versions of the operating system. They're extremely risky for several reasons. First, they might not actually address the vulnerabilities they claim to fix, leaving your system just as exposed. Second, they could introduce entirely new vulnerabilities that weren't present in the original XP version. In the worst-case scenario, these unofficial updates could even contain malware that infects your system. Sticking to official Microsoft updates is the only safe way to go.

Antivirus:

While some users believe very cautious online behavior can replace antivirus software, it's a risky bet. Antivirus acts as an extra layer of security, constantly safeguarding your system against malware in real-time. These programs can continuously scan downloaded files, attachments, and websites for malicious code before they infect your system. If a threat is detected, the antivirus can block it from running and causing damage. You can even schedule regular scans to ensure your system is always monitored. Luckily, several free antivirus options offer basic protection for Windows XP. Popular choices include Avast, which offers real-time protection, email scanning, and web filtering. AVG is another option that provides basic defense against viruses, spyware, and other malware. For those seeking additional security features, Comodo Free Antivirus offers real-time protection with behavior-based blocking and sandboxing technology.

Web Browser:

Internet Explorer 8, the last version available for Windows XP, is a ticking time bomb. This outdated browser is riddled with security holes that malicious websites can exploit to infect your system. These vulnerabilities could allow attackers to steal your login credentials, financial information, or other sensitive data. Even worse, they could install malware on your system without you even knowing, or potentially gain remote access and take control of your entire computer. To avoid these risks, replacing Internet Explorer with a more secure browser is essential. Luckily, there are several options that still work well with Windows XP and offer significant security improvements. MyPal is a lightweight and fast browser known for its focus on security. It gets frequent updates and is a great choice for older systems. Pale Moon, a browser based on Firefox, offers a customizable and lightweight experience while keeping security at the forefront with ongoing updates. Finally, SRWare Iron is another Firefox fork that prioritizes privacy and security. It has a familiar interface for users transitioning from Internet Explorer, making it an easy switch.

Browser Security:

Your browser's security can be enhanced with two tools: host file immunization and ad blockers.

Host files are simple text files that translate website names (like "https://www.google.com/") into numerical addresses (like "172.217.160.137"). When you visit a website, your computer checks the host file first. If a match is found, it uses the listed address instead of looking up the website on the internet. Tools like Spybot Search and Destroy can automate adding entries to your host file. These entries block malicious websites by pointing their domain names to a safe, unreachable address, often "127.0.0.1" which loops back to your own machine. This is a simple and easy to manage security measure, but it requires keeping the list of malicious sites updated as new threats emerge. There are pre-made host files available online, but be cautious when downloading them as some might contain errors or even malware.

Ad blockers like Adblock Plus add another layer of security. These programs filter out advertisements before your browser even loads them. This improves browsing speed and reduces the risk of encountering malicious ads that can contain hidden code to exploit vulnerabilities and infect your system. While ad blockers protect you and improve performance, keep in mind that some legitimate websites rely on ad revenue. Disabling all ads with an ad blocker could prevent some sites from functioning properly.

User Accounts:

When it comes to user accounts in Windows XP, there are two main options: administrator and standard. An administrator account has the keys to the kingdom, allowing you to install software, tweak system settings, and access any file on the computer. Standard user accounts, on the other hand, are much more restricted. They can handle everyday tasks like web browsing and using office applications, but they can't install programs or make major system changes.


While using a standard account might seem like a hassle, it offers a significant security advantage. If malware manages to sneak onto your system and infects a standard user account, its reach is limited. It can only access files and settings tied to that specific account, minimizing the overall damage it can inflict. Additionally, many system changes and software installations require administrator privileges. With a standard account, you'll need to enter the administrator password for these tasks. This extra step acts as a security checkpoint, prompting you to think twice before running unknown programs or making potentially risky changes.

Data Execution Prevention (DEP):

Data Execution Prevention (DEP) acts as a security gatekeeper for your Windows XP system. It controls where programs can store and run code within your computer's memory. Certain memory areas are designated for data storage only, off-limits for program execution. This creates a hurdle for malware. Many malware programs try to infect systems by injecting malicious code into these memory sections. DEP makes it difficult for this injected code to run, hindering the malware's ability to take hold. Enabling DEP for all programs is highly recommended as it adds a significant layer of security. While some older programs might not work perfectly with DEP turned on, the security benefits outweigh the risks in most cases. If you do encounter compatibility issues, try disabling DEP for a specific program as a last resort.

Enhanced Mitigation Experience Toolkit (EMET):

The Enhanced Mitigation Experience Toolkit (EMET) is a free security tool from Microsoft that acts like an extra shield for your Windows XP system. While it can be a bit complex to set up, EMET offers significant security benefits by making it much harder for attackers to exploit vulnerabilities in your software.

Here's how EMET works: Imagine it fortifying your programs with additional security features. You can configure EMET to put up roadblocks that prevent malicious code from exploiting weaknesses. It can also enable a security feature called Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR) for programs that lack it. ASLR works by constantly rearranging the program's internal layout in memory, making it harder for attackers to target specific locations to inject malicious code. Additionally, EMET provides more control over Data Execution Prevention (DEP). DEP restricts where programs can store and run code in memory. EMET can enforce DEP for all programs, even those that traditionally caused compatibility issues when DEP was enabled. This creates a stronger defense against malware that tries to inject malicious code. Finally, EMET can help mitigate vulnerabilities exploited through a technique called heap spraying. Attackers might use this tactic to flood a program's memory with data, allowing them to overwrite legitimate code with malicious code. EMET can make this tactic much harder for attackers to pull off successfully.

While EMET offers a powerful security boost, it's important to remember that it's not a foolproof solution. It requires some technical knowledge to configure and might not be ideal for everyone. However, if you're comfortable with some technical tinkering and want to significantly improve your Windows XP system's security, EMET is a valuable tool to consider.

Java and Flash:

Java and Flash, once the glorious pioneers of interactive web experiences, have fallen from grace. They powered animations, games, and even early social media, bringing life to the early internet. However, these technologies haven't kept pace with security advancements. Over time, hackers discovered numerous vulnerabilities in Java and Flash, turning them into potential security sinkholes. These weaknesses could be exploited to deliver malware, steal data, or even take control of your system. As these risks became known, websites began abandoning Java and Flash in favor of safer alternatives. Today, most modern web content utilizes HTML5 and Javascript, offering similar functionality without the security baggage. Since Java and Flash are no longer essential for everyday web browsing, the best course of action is to disable them in your browser. This significantly reduces the attack surface available to malicious actors, making your browsing experience safer.

Network Disconnect:

Connecting your Windows XP system to the internet opens the door to a vast landscape of potential threats. Outdated software on XP is particularly vulnerable to attacks. Malicious websites can exploit these vulnerabilities, while email attachments and downloads can unknowingly harbor malware.

Disconnecting your XP system from the network altogether acts like a digital detox, creating an air gap between your system and these online threats. If you primarily use Windows XP for tasks that don't require internet access, like word processing or playing offline games, then disconnecting becomes a highly effective security measure.

However, completely disconnecting from the internet might not be practical for everyone. There's a balance to be struck between security and convenience. If internet access is essential, prioritize using a secure browser with the latest updates and practicing safe online habits like avoiding suspicious links and downloads. Remember, even with these precautions, using an unsupported operating system like Windows XP inherently carries more risk.

AutoRun:

The AutoRun feature in Windows XP can be a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it offers convenience by automatically launching programs or displaying content from removable media like USB drives. This can be handy for accessing photos or videos you bring on a flash drive. However, this convenience comes at a security cost.

Malicious actors can exploit AutoRun to turn USB drives into Trojan horses. By embedding malware on a USB drive, they can trick your system into automatically launching it as soon as you plug it in. This malware can then infect your system without your knowledge or consent.

To mitigate this risk, it's best to disable AutoRun. This is a simple yet effective step that can prevent malware from automatically launching from removable media. Disabling AutoRun won't prevent you from accessing files on the drive. You can still use the file explorer to browse the contents of the USB drive manually, giving you more control over what gets executed on your system.

Productivity Software:

Sticking with outdated Microsoft Office products like Office XP or 2003 on Windows XP creates a double security risk. Firstly, these applications are no longer supported by Microsoft, meaning they won't receive critical security updates that patch vulnerabilities discovered by hackers. These vulnerabilities can be exploited by malicious actors to inject malware into your system or steal your data.

Secondly, older Office applications might have inherent vulnerabilities in their code that were unknown at the time of release. Since these applications are no longer being actively developed or patched, these vulnerabilities remain open for attackers to exploit.

Fortunately, there are secure alternatives available. Open-source office suites like LibreOffice offer a strong solution. LibreOffice is free, regularly updated with security patches, and boasts a feature set comparable to Microsoft Office. It can open and save documents in the same formats as Microsoft Office, ensuring compatibility with most files you encounter. Switching to a secure open-source alternative like LibreOffice can significantly reduce the security risks associated with using outdated and unsupported office software on Windows XP.

System Restore:

System Restore can be a helpful tool for recovering from mistakes on your Windows XP system, but it's important to understand its limitations. Think of it like a snapshot in time, capturing the state of your system files and settings at a specific moment. This allows you to revert back to that point if something goes wrong, like a bad software installation or unexpected driver conflict. However, it's not a foolproof solution. System Restore won't recover lost data like documents or photos you create after the restore point was taken. Additionally, if the malware you're trying to combat has corrupted critical system files crucial for the restore process itself, System Restore might fail entirely.

This is where things get tricky. In some cases, your antivirus software might actually prevent System Restore from working correctly. Antivirus programs often quarantine or delete suspicious files, and these files might be necessary for a successful system restoration. Disabling your antivirus is a risky gamble, leaving your system vulnerable to further attacks while defenseless. It should only be done as a last resort, and immediately re-enabled after attempting the restore.

Even with antivirus disabled, System Restore isn't guaranteed success. If the malware corrupted critical system files, the restore process might fail. Additionally, restore points might not capture all system changes, leaving you with a partially restored system that still has issues.

If System Restore fails, you're left with a worst-case scenario: formatting your hard drive and reinstalling Windows XP. This wipes out your entire system, including all your data and programs. It's a time-consuming and data-lossy process, highlighting the importance of prevention over cure.

Remember, even with these precautions, Windows XP is inherently insecure due to lack of official support. If possible, consider upgrading to a supported operating system for maximum security.