June 30, 1997
Which Windows 95 Do You have?
No doubt many of you are familiar with the fact that a new version of Windows 95 is soon to be released. The product is now known by the code name Memphis, and word is that it will be released early next year as Windows 98. Less publicity has been given to the fact that three versions of Windows 95 already exist:
- The original August 1995 release
- OSR1, released in December 1995
- OSR2, released in August 1996
The two OSR (OEM Service Releases) versions were provided to PC manufacturers for sale with new PCs. Windows 95 is a very young operating system, and Microsoft has been continually refining it since 1995. The service releases contain all of the updates to Windows 95 prior to the date of their releases. These updates correct a number of minor and major flaws. The bad news is that you can only acquire these releases with a new PC. The good news is that all of the updates in OSR1 and most of the updates in OSR2 are available for free download from the Product Updates page at Microsoft's Windows 95 Web site.
Before you start downloading updates, you should determine which version of Windows 95 you currently own. Open the Control Panel, double-click on the System icon, and look at the first tab of the System properties sheet. Near the top, you will see something similar to this:
System:
Microsoft Windows 95
4.00.950
If your version number is 4.00.950b, you have OSR2 and all of the available updates through August 1996. If the version number reads 4.00.950a, you have OSR1 and can skip to the next paragraph. If the version number is 4.00.950 as in the example above, you have the original release of Windows 95 and probably don't have any of the updates. You can immediately upgrade to OSR1 by going to the Product Updates page, clicking on the Service Packs link, and downloading Service Pack 1. Download and installation instructions, as well as information on what the update fixes are available on that Web page.
Once you have installed Service Pack 1, your version number will be changed 4.00.950a. You now are running OSR1. You can then check out the System Updates and OSR2 Downloadable Components links for fixes that were released since Service Pack 1. Finding out which of these updates you already have is easy, thanks to a tool installed by Service Pack 1. On the Start Menu, open Programs --Accessories -- System Tools -- Update Information Tool. It will list all of the updates you have already installed.
Be sure to follow all of the instructions on the various download pages. If, when you are attempting to install any update, you receive a message that the file you are attempting to update is newer than the one you are installing, always elect to keep the newer file.
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Bob Cerelli's Windows 95 Page
Great informational site packed with content geared towards all skill levels. Attractive layout.
PC World Online -- Windows 95
This site has everything: daily Windows 95 news, tips, product reviews, and feature articles.
Frank Condron's World O' Windows
A massive list of updated device drivers, news, tips, and more.
Microsoft Windows 95 Technical Support Page
Access the Knowledge Base of support articles, frequently asked questions, interactive troubleshooting wizards, and other Microsoft support options.
Windows Magazine Windows 95 Home Page
One of the better sites for beginners, it also includes more advanced information. Great links, a new tip every day, news and free software downloads.
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Windows 95
