d4500 has it correct. You'll still be able to find 32-bit x86 hardware in a decade (or two). Geeze, there are still Amiga computers (1989) and C64s (1981) running out there. There are people using 386 systems for various reasons (firewalls, robotics, etc.). But, running something like Win98 will soon become more difficult due to its limitations and the needs of newer software/hardware. If you want to run more recent software, you'll need an OS that can handle the bloat. ;) Also, what will you do when the smallest memory chip is 1GB and PC9600 TDR? As you sink into the stone age, everyone else will be completing full-length 3D CG movies in several days and you'll still be spending a week on a still image. - Yes, it's an arms race, I suppose...

C makes it easy to shoot yourself in the foot. C++ makes it harder, but when you do, you blow your whole leg off.

 -- Bjarne Stroustrup

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