How to Install MS-DOS to a Flash Drive

Install MS-DOS on a flash drive to run DOS on multiple computers.

Many advanced computer users like to work within the command-line system of MS-DOS. Some install it on their hard drives, but if you don't want to take up the hard drive space or want to use it on multiple computers, installing it on a flash drive is a good option. When the drive is plugged in, you will be able to boot the machine in MS-DOS straight off the drive.

Things You'll Need

• HP USB Disk Storage Format Tool
• DOS System files

Instructions

1. Download the HP USB Disk Storage Format Tool and DOS System Files. Find several places to do so in Resources below.

2. Double-click the HP USB Disk Storage Format Tool to install it.

3. Double-click DOS System Files to open the zip file. Save the contents to a folder on your hard drive. You can delete this after you finish the entire process.

4. Run the HP USB Disk Storage Format Tool.

5. Select your flash drive under "Device."

6. Select "FAT32" under "File."

7. Type in a "Volume Label" to name your drive or ignore it to keep it the default.

8. Check "Create a DOS startup Disc." In that box, check "using DOS system files located at." Click "..." to select the folder you created in Step 3.

9. Click Start.

10. Confirm the installation by clicking "Yes."

Tips & Warnings

• Back up all the data on your flash drive before you begin. This process will wipe it clean.

References

• Make your flash drive bootable!
• How to format a USB Memory Key
• Boot from a USB/Flash/Pen/Key Drive

Resources

• Download HP USB Tool and DOS System Files (Option #1)
• Download HP USB Tool and DOS System Files (Option #2)