Windows is no longer built on a foundation of MS-DOS. In all versions of Windows beginning with Windows 2000, Windows is built on foundations taken from Windows NT. For practical purposes, MS-DOS has not been included with or required for Microsoft Windows since version 3.11. Users of later versions of Windows may be confused or misguided in thinking the Windows Command Prompt is MS-DOS. While the two have a similar look and functionality, they are not the same. The Windows Command Prompt is an MS-DOS interpreter that allows Windows to run DOS applications.

  • How to get to an MS-DOS prompt or Windows command line.

Windows Command Prompt

Using the command line is a different method of navigating files and interacting with the computer. Today, anything that can be done in the command line can also be done in the Windows Explorer.

  • How to disable the Windows Command Prompt.

Purchasing MS-DOS

Microsoft has phased out the older stand-alone versions MS-DOS. If you’re looking for a place to purchase older programs, such as a copy of MS-DOS, try our section containing suggestions on how to find old software.

  • How to find old computer software.
  • How to use the Windows command line (DOS).
  • See our MS-DOS and Windows command line definitions for further information and related links.
  • MS-DOS and Windows command line help and support.