I have an old '98 with lots of pictures and other files that I want. However, I can't figure out how to get them off. Although my keyboard works, my mouse (usb) does not, it keeps asking for the installation software (which i don't have; it works fine on my newer computer). Also, when I plug in my flashdrive to copy the files it also keeps prompting me for installation software. Do you have any suggestions on how to remove files from the old harddrive?
The flash drive is a lexar, although i bought it on ebay so i didnt get the software. I've tried three usb mice (mouses?) and none of them worked.

What brand is your thumb drive? You can usually get Win98 drivers for almost every brand of USB Drive. Win98 should also work with USB mice. Try another one if you can.

You need Win98se for USB and/or Firewire connectivity. Try an older serial mouse with the round plug that goes into the back of the computer. Then, your best bet will be to find an online storage vault and upload what you want. A direct cable setup to a Win98 box is s-l-o-w. Why? because Win98 is 16-bit and other machines don't know quiet what to do with 16-bit transfers.

The other thing you can try is to download and burn the Ubuntu CD. 90% of the time, a Ubuntu install sees a USB drive.

good luck.