How To Run Dos Programs In Windows 10 64 Bit

If y'all're feeling nostalgic for 8-bit games or need to run some one-time software, 32-bit Windows x doesn't accommodate. Old DOS programs need a little extra to run on the newer, 64-bit version of Windows.

You can utilize vDos to help you run former DOS software if you demand to, although it isn't a suitable selection for gaming. Here's how to use it.

What Is vDos?

To allow older DOS programs to run on newer Windows platforms, the Virtual DOS Automobile (NTVDM) is used. Windows ten 32-flake includes this, but 64-flake versions don't. Instead, Windows users will run across a pop-up warning that DOS programs can't run.

vDos is a 3rd-party DOS emulator that replaces Windows' ain NTVDM technology. When you run DOS software through vDos, information technology'll load in its own window. It adds network and printer support, provides clipboard access and allows y'all direct access to your organisation files.

vDos isn't the merely DOS emulator in town, even so. DOSBOX is an alternative, primarily designed for playing old DOS games, something that vDos can't practise. You tin also employ vDosPlus, a fork of vDos, although vDos receives far more than regular updates.

How to Install vDos

If you lot want to install vDos, head to the vDos download page and download the installation programme. The installation procedure is piece of cake – open the installer and follow the instructions.

Make sure you allow vDos to patch and update to the most recent version of vDos during the installation.

One time vDos is installed, you can check that information technology's working by opening vDos (labeled "vDos") from the Start menu.

vDos comes with a test version of DataPerfect, an old DOS database tool. The initial configuration file volition automatically load DataPerfect one time it runs. If vDos is working, DataPerfect should load in its own window.

If vDos is working correctly, close the test window and head to your vDos installation folder (typically "C:\vDos").

Open up the "autoexec.txt" file and remove everything listed within earlier saving and closing.

Open vDos again, and yous should encounter the typical DOS "C:\" prompt. From hither, you tin now run whatsoever DOS software you like.

If you lot'd similar to configure vDos farther (to enable impress or network support, for instance), the vDos FAQ offers support and guidance to help you.

How to Use vDos

With the initial vDos startup configuration erased, y'all'll see the DOS prompt every time you lot run the vDos program. There's a selection of interesting DOS software available online that you lot can try, from text-based web browsers to graphics-editing tools.

To run your software, download your DOS software and place information technology in the aforementioned directory as vDos (for example, "C:\vDos"). This directory is treated as the initial "C:\" directory.

Use the dir command to list files in your current folder, then cd followed by a folder name to motion to that folder. Type .. to go up one directory.

At the "C:\" DOS prompt, type the name of your DOS software EXE file and press enter. Your DOS software will load within the vDos window, ready for you to apply.

Running DOS Programs on Windows 10

DOS isn't just outdated, information technology's ancient, with the last release of MS-DOS nearly 20 years ago. Software like vDos helps to fill up in the gap, giving a new lease on life to older software that you wouldn't otherwise be able to run.

Back up for DOS is still popular for those who want to play DOS games in Windows. Feel gratuitous to give us your thoughts on DOSBOX and vDos in the comments section below.

Image credit: vDos

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