Windows-2000 and Windows-NT each make a virtual machine for DOS programs (I believe 2000's is more effective). As long as the program does not access the hardware directly (many DOS programs using soundcards do), does not use VESA video modes, and otherwise doesn't violate NT / 2000 rules, the DOS program will run. NT and 2000 can even run some programs that crash 95 or 98 unless run in MSDOS mode. Windows-2000 can even run some programs requiring expanded memory. If the application does not run, an alternate operating system capable of running the program must be booted. My current recommendations are Windows-95 and 98 often, but not always are capable of running MSDOS programs under its services. Even though expanded memory drivers can be loaded in order to allow DOS programs requiring them to be run under 9x, my own personal view is that they should be run under MSDOS mode instead because expanded memory makes Windows less stable. Just be sure you've set up a multiple configuration file with that option OR just plan to use a custom bootdisk for DOS programs requiring expanded memory. Anyway there's always MSDOS mode (or for the sophisticated a boot to Command Prompt Only) for those non-compliant applications Windows ME still supports SOME DOS applications through an MS-DOS window, but not as many as 95 or 98. It has NO MS-DOS mode. Real-mode DOS can only be invoked by booting to a floppy. |