by 3 hours ago
ANSWERS: 2
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Yes or no, depending on whether it is supported by your current operating system. Generally when there is a new addition to an operating system family, such as how Windows XP is a better version of other older Windows products, it can support the older software that 98, 95, etc. could play, and it won't compromise the system at all. There are few exceptions to this rule when it comes to software. An old version of an antivirus program, for example, can pose a security risk because it can not protect you from all the nasties like worms, viruses and trojans that are out there. Other than security programs, however, generally it is safe to install older software onto a newer computer.
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Older software can pose a security risk if it contains vulnerabilitites that have not been fixed (patched). Newer versions typically have the fixes already built in. Then again, new versions often have newer fuctionality, which means new code, which means the potential for new vulnerabilities that are yet to be discovered. So one is not necessarily better than the other. The important thing is that whatever software you install, should have all security fixes / updates done as soon as they are available. Unfortunately, many software companies stop trying to update older versions after a set period of time. Example - very soon Microsoft will issue no more security fixes for Windows 95 / 98 / ME.
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