Microsoft Releases 86-DOS 1.0 Source Code, Unveiling PC History
Microsoft open-sources MS-DOS 1.0, offering a rare look at PC history
Xda-developers
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On the 45th anniversary of DOS, Microsoft has open-sourced the source code for 86-DOS 1.00, the first version of DOS for IBM PCs. This release includes the original kernel and handwritten notes from creator Tim Paterson, providing insight into the early days of personal computing.
- 01Microsoft has released the source code for 86-DOS 1.00, marking a significant moment in PC history.
- 02The release includes handwritten notes from Tim Paterson, the original creator of DOS.
- 0386-DOS laid the foundation for MS-DOS, which dominated the PC market in the 1980s and early 1990s.
- 04Artifacts from this era will be displayed at the Interim Computer Museum.
- 05This release follows previous open-source efforts by Microsoft for later versions of DOS.
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Microsoft has marked the 45th anniversary of DOS by open-sourcing the source code for 86-DOS 1.00, the initial version of DOS for IBM PCs. This significant release includes the original kernel, development snapshots, and utilities such as CHKDSK. Notably, it features handwritten notes from Tim Paterson, the original creator of DOS, providing valuable context on its development, including timelines and feature implementations. The source code and accompanying artifacts will be showcased at the Interim Computer Museum, highlighting the historical importance of this software. The acquisition of 86-DOS in 1980 for approximately $75,000 by Microsoft, led by CEO Bill Gates, set the stage for the company's future as a tech leader. Previously, the earliest available versions of MS-DOS were 1.25 and 2.0. Microsoft's ongoing commitment to preserving and sharing historically significant software continues with this release.
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