During the much-hyped release of the business-focused Windows 2000 operating system in February, Microsoft promised another new Windows operating system -- Windows "Me" (short for Millennium Edition) aimed at home computer users -- originally slated for release last May. Well, spring turned into fall, and the software is finally on store shelves.

Described as a minor upgrade to Windows 98 by many online news sources, Windows Me does offer several new features that will most benefit novice computer users and families interested in home networking. However, as with all new software releases, you might want to take a wait-and-see approach for the next six months while potential bugs are discovered and fixed.

• System Restore: automatically saves crucial system files every 10 hours of computing time, which, in the event of a computer malfunction, allows individuals to restore their computer to the last time it was working properly.
• System File Protection: prevents the accidental or unauthorized overwriting of important operating system files.
• AutoUpdate: when your computer is connected to the Internet, automatically downloads important Microsoft updates (virus patches, bug fixes, etc.).
• Home Networking Wizard: helps users set up their multiple home computers to share files and a single internet connection.

Also included is the latest version of Microsoft's popular Web browser, Internet Explorer 5.5, and Media Player 7, the company's multi-purpose media player (MP3s, wave files, CDs, movies, etc.).

Windows Me is scheduled to be the final release of the Windows 95/98 product line, with future users being channeled to a consumer version of Windows 2000 (currently slated for 2004). In fact, elements of Windows 2000 are already showing up in Windows Me. According to Beau Patrette, Manager of IT Express (IT's main computing help desk), Windows Me shares the same desktop interface as Windows 2000, but Windows 2000 is designed more for those who need advanced security and networking features and for those who enjoy the stability of Windows NT.

While most new PC computers for home use will come with Windows Me pre-installed, it might be a good idea to wait for several months before upgrading from Windows 95/98 on your current computer. During the first six months of a release, industry critics will publish evaluations, and Microsoft will likely need to correct many first-release defects. Your best bet is to wait for the second release.

If you do run Windows Me, Patrette says Bovine Online 5.0, this year's IT-produced UC Davis Internet tools software suite, is compatible with it. Bovine Online is available for purchase at the UC Davis Bookstore.