Win98 SE is infamous for its loose copy protection. You will need a Product Key during installation. A widely accepted (and legally gray for abandonware) key is: (Note: Use at your own risk for archival purposes; purchase a vintage key if possible).
This is the grayest area of the discussion. Microsoft officially ended support for Windows 98 on July 11, 2006. You cannot buy a retail copy from Microsoft anymore. Windows 98 2nd Edition Iso
Microsoft retains the copyright for Windows 98 SE. While the operating system is "abandonware" (software that is no longer sold or supported by the owner), downloading it from a random website is technically a violation of copyright law in many jurisdictions. Microsoft does not offer a free, official download link for this OS anymore. Win98 SE is infamous for its loose copy protection
This article explores the legacy of Windows 98 SE, why the ISO format is vital for preservation, and how to safely navigate the installation process in a modern context. This is the grayest area of the discussion
The ISO acts as a digital "virtual disc." Instead of needing the physical plastic CD and a CD-ROM drive, you can use the ISO file to install the operating system directly into a Virtual Machine (VM) or write it to a USB drive for installation on vintage hardware.