Although this book is devoted to Windows 98 programming, you will probably want your applications to run on the other Windows platforms as well as on Windows 98. The likely candidates are Windows 95 and Windows NT 4.
I could simply assert that there are no real differences between Windows 98, Windows 95, and Windows NT 4, but that would be an oversimplification. In truth, there are worlds of differences. From a programming standpoint, however, most of the differences are invisible. Most applications written to run under Windows 98 will also execute under Windows NT and Windows 95, and vice versa. There are exceptions, but they are just that—exceptions.
I’ll point out the exceptions in later chapters, whenever they apply to the subject at hand. For now, I’ll just provide a general overview of some areas that may be of concern when you are designing cross-system applications.
TIP
If you are developing a cross-system application, the best approach is to periodically test your application on both operating systems. Then, if the application functions on one but not on the other, that’s when the fun begins…and best of luck.