Windows 98

• In 1998, Microsoft released their first OS aimed at consumers--Windows 98. This product featured several features like a Disk Defragmenter, a backup utility and Paintbrush, allowing you to open all sorts of graphics files.
  
  

System Requirements

• For Windows 98 to operate you need a computer with a 66 megahertz processor and at least 16 megabytes of RAM. In addition, this OS takes up 500 megabytes of hard drive space.
  
  

Support Ends

• Microsoft ended technical support for Windows 98 in 2006. Microsoft supports their products for a period of 10 years before discontinuing upgrades and technical assistance.
  
  

Windows XP

• Released in 2001, Windows XP came in two versions: a Home Edition and Professional. This OS featured a completely new interface for users and the ability to run automatic updates from the Internet.
  
  

System Requirements

• In order to run XP, you need a computer with at least a 233 megahertz processor. You will also need 64 megabytes of RAM and a 1.5 gigabyte hard drive.
  
  

Mainstream Support

• As per Microsoft's Lifecycle policy, mainstream support of XP Professional ends on April 14, 2009. Extended support for this product ends on April 8, 2014.