Disk Operating System (DOS)

Use DOS if you need a powerful low-level operating system

A disk operating system (DOS) is a powerful, low-level operating system that controls and supervises how programs run on your computer. DOS provides instructions to the computer to interpret hardware input to your keyboard and mouse. It provides print control and works with other connected hardware.

DOS is a single-user, single-task computer operating system with a command line interface. It's one of the best operating systems in spite of its simplicity and small size. The most popular and widely used version of the DOS family operating systems is MS-DOS, or Microsoft Disk Operating System.

Many businesses use MS-DOS, which is included free with the purchase of any version of Microsoft Windows. DOS is a popular operating choice; it provides many features and add-ons and will be around for a long time.

1. DOS supports legacy programs.

2. Many new or improved utilities and applications require DOS.

3. DOS is small and fits on a single floppy disk with space left over.

4. DOS commands are necessary when using the non-graphical command shell to create and edit batches or scripts to automate routine tasks

 

Download disk operating system software to meet your needs

To get the most out of DOS, use some of the add-on features of disk operating system, like the DOS Shell. The DOS shell is a file manager that lets you access user accounts quickly, assign rights, give permission, view user profiles, unzip files and check security. It also lets you execute simple DOS commands like copy, move or rename. Write shell scripts and automate multiple or tedious commands.
Try: All versions of Microsoft Windows come with MS-DOS. If you currently use Microsoft products, the MS-DOS shell would be a great choice. Retrosoftware carries the latest IBM DOS version for all IBM and IBM compatibles. Download and install a copy of FreeDOS or OpenDOS, both of which are MS-DOS-compatible operating systems. If you are a developer, you can download the source code as well.

Choose a DOS editor to fit your needs

Choose a DOS text editor that's easy to use and fits your business needs. Using a text editor for DOS is similar to using Notepad, except you'll have additional features; like the capability to work with multiple text files, change backgrounds and text colors, word wrap, spell check, and copy and paste to other Windows applications.
Try: Download a copy of the WinPedit DOS editor from Free Download Manager. It ranks high in performance; it's easy to use and works great with any Windows platform. BrotherSoft offers a Witzend text editor. Witzend is a small DOS editor with no special requirements, making it a good choice for older systems or users who work only occasionally with DOS.

See how easy it is to use disk operating system commands

The operating system DOS is made up of a number of easy commands that allow you to quickly get things done with just a few keystrokes. Disk operating system commands are textual and fast. DOS provides an easy-to-use help feature that eliminates the need to remember DOS commands. You can find everything you need by using this feature, but it's faster if you learn some common commands as you get started.
Try: Tech Guide and Animated Software are great sites to visit if you're just getting started. With limited DOS knowledge and the use of the DOS help command, you can get started right away.

 

• Execute DOS commands in a snap by using hotkeys and useful keyboard shortcuts.

Copyright © 2011 Business.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

---