The Windows Desktop is similar to a real desk on which you place the computer equivalent of the documents and tools you might find on your real-world desk. 

When Windows 98 is first installed, the following standard objects appear on the Desktop:
•	My Computer - this is the entry point to your computer's folder structure and resources. 
•	My Briefcase - useful when you want to work on files both at home and in your office. 
•	Recycle Bin - this is where all deleted items are sent.
•	Network Neighborhood - this enables you to see and share information with other computers if you are connected to the network
•	Internet Explorer -  this enables you to:
•	Send E-mail messages to users all over the world.
•	Take part in Newsgroups - Internet newsgroups offer discussions and open forums on thousands of specialized topics. 
•	Access the World Wide Web - the medium on which the majority of Internet information is published. 

Objects on the Desktop are represented by graphical images called Icons. You can move objects around and add or remove objects as you wish. You can choose to activate objects by using either a single or a double mouse click.  This option is available in the Web Integration Settings.

You can customize the Desktop by adding shortcuts to your favorite applications and documents, and by changing its look to fit your mood and personality.  

The Taskbar (normally visible at bottom of the screen) enables you to start up any application installed on your computer and to shut down your computer.