Run Windows 3.1 on a Newer Computer
Many computer users are nostalgic about Windows 3.1 operating system and running Windows 3.1 applications. It's been over a decade since the operating system was widely used, yet many people in the tech community have found ways to make Windows 3.1 work on newer machines. Because Windows XP, Vista and 7 do not provide software that allows you to run Windows 3.1 directly, there are a few creative downloads and methods that can get you back on a trip down Windows memory lane.
Instructions
Virtual PC
1. Open Virtual PC, which is pre-installed on Windows 7, or download the program from the Microsoft website if you are using an older operating system.
2. To begin creating a new virtual machine on your PC, select \"OS/2\" as your operating system from the drop-down menu and click \"Next.\" Adjust your RAM to 16 MB and click \"Next.\" Select the option for a new virtual disk and set your drive size to \"2 GB.\" Then click \"Finish\" to create the virtual machine.
3. Attach the image file or boot disk of MS-DOS to your virtual machine. Click \"Action\" and then \"Reset\" to reset the virtual machine.
4. Allow the machine to boot into DOS, type \"fdisk\" and press \"Enter.\" Use the entire hard drive size for your primary DOS partition and select \"Active.\" Format your virtual C drive by typing 'Format C:.\"
5. Install MS-DOS on your formatted hard drive.
6. Insert a CD or use an image file to install Windows 3.1, using the Windows 3.1 setup program.
DOSBox
7. Download DOSBox from dosbox.com, which is another virtual DOS program.
8. Create a directory in DOSBox by typing "mount C ~/your_directory". Then type "Z:\\" to mount your virtual floppy drive by typing "mount A ~ /your_floppy_director". Type "C:\\."
9. Open your file manager outside of DOSBox and drag your first Windows 3.1 installation file into your DOSBox's virtual A: drive. After you've dragged a file, click "Ctrl-F4." In the command prompt of DOSBox type "A:\\SETUP.EXE". Repeat this step when DOSBox asks you for another installation disk and click \"Enter\" until there are none left. Windows is now installed.
10. To run the program type "cd C:\\WINDOWS\\" followed by typing "win."
Run in Browser
11. Connect to the Internet using your preferred browser.
12. Go to michaelv.org. Developer Michael V has set up an emulator of Windows 3.1 on the Internet for those who do not want to install Windows 3.1 on a computer.
13. Play games, use the Internet or perform other functions in the virtual online Windows 3.1.
Tags: operating system, virtual machine, your virtual, click Next, drive size
