:-?I'm a rather aged, novice Brit using an old NEC Powermate pc with 32MB RAM and WINDOWS 98. I have been SEDUCED into signing up for broadband on the assurance that I only need Windows 98SE (but NOT FIRST edition). After a lengthy search I have managed to buy Windows 98SE only to find it will not load as it is only for new pcs and it tells me I need the Windows 98SE Upgrade. This does not SEEM to exist!! Before you tell me to throw away the old computer and join the 21st Century, let me add I also have an old wife, old car and old cat and I'm not throwing them away either!! Any suggestions most gratefully received.Windows 98SE is just Windows 98 with all the updates etc.
At least, that's what I've been told, please someone correct me if I'm wrong.
Be aware that if you are on the internet with Windows 98 you will be vulnerable, as Microsoft will not be releasing any more security patches for it.
What happens when you try to load 98SE?
You say it tells you that you need the upgrade, but what actually happens?There was a 98 to 98SE upgrade disk sold briefly by Microsoft which may still be available on eBay.

What you have will work fine, but it will require a format and reinstall, which is not a bad THING. You will just have to backup any necessary data files first.

That's what I would do.  

98 to 98SE was more than a few minor fixes, and is certainly preferable for a lot of reasons.If it will not install, you have an OEM version instead of a full retail version. There is a way around the problem but unless you are PC savvy I would not suggest it.