Conclusion

It's clear that there is a lot of new functionality built into Windows ME, but is it worth spending your cash on? It's a hard call. For starters, IE 5.5 and Windows Media Player are downloadable freebies, that you can install TODAY on your existing OS. 

Even then, I see little compelling reason to bother with either of them, unless you feel like you just have to. They really bring too little to the plate for my tastes. Insofar as the system protection tools are concerned, the automatic updater applet is available for Win9x OS's as well at Windows Update. 

The System Restore and System File Protection tools are useful, but have rivals in commercial space (Adaptec Go-Back, Powerquest Second-Chance), and eat too much system space and resources for my taste. I've never been one for these types of tools myself. 

I do stand by my assertion from my own personal observations that Windows ME is slightly more robust and crashworthy than it's predecessor, but not phenomenally so. Certainly not to the point that Windows 2000 is. Still, the upgrade version of Windows ME is only going to be $49, and may be cheaper once it officially hits retail. OEM full install versions of Windows ME are already available, and have already fell below $100, so it's likely the price may fall for the retail upgrade as well. 

Everyone is going to want a new Windows OS of course, regardless of what I say here. Those who are looking for truly meaningful distinctions, should look towards Windows 2000 now, or wait for the new revamp, codenamed "Whistler" to debut next year. If not I doubt you'd be missing too terribly much by not installing Windows ME. 

Pros:

• Windows 2000 Explorer interface

• Faster booting

• DOS is finally almost dead. It's still twitching, but it's on it's last breath. 

• System Damage Control features can be lifesavers to the novice.

• Integrated IE 5.5 and new Windows Media Player.

• Slightly more robust core than Win98se

• Better home networking support

Cons: 

• Much of the "new" functionality of the OS is downloadable for free.

• Changes are evolutionary rather than revolutionary.

• Performance degradation from using some of it's failsafe features.

• Still a 9x OS, just updated. I'd call it 98.75 ;)

Rating: 8/10

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