Version 3.0 of 98lite, the software designed to allow Windows 98 to run without the integrated Internet Explorer, has reached RC1 stage and according to developer Shane Brooks final code should be ready in a few weeks time. Brooks also promises a quick follow up for Windows 2000, and dangles the prospect of an "embedded" version that will cut the Windows 98 install down to 15-20 megabytes. When he designed 98lite Brooks' initial objective was to be able to run Windows 98 without the Internet Explorer shell, the idea being that the OS would be more stable, faster and lower footprint without integrated IE. But since then 98lite has grown into a mechanism for controlling, configuring and tailoring Windows installations. Version 3.0 adds a slew of features to the add-remove list in the Windows control panel, and allows a full Windows installation to be converted down to the smallest (current) 98lite implementation, 98micro (sub-44 megabytes), and then back up again without a full OS reinstall, just a single reboot. Aside from IE it can add/remove DirectX, MediaPlayer ActiveMovie, the Internet Control Panel applet and a stash of other integrated and pseudo-integrated goodies. RC1 is currently available in the 98lite Professional version for download by registered users, but Brooks promises an RC2 for registered 98lite users shortly. The Professional version has added features, and costs from $25 upwards - you pick your own price. ® See Also Further information from 98lite.net