Microsoft Releases Earliest Known DOS Source Code to the Public
Microsoft open-sources "the earliest DOS source code discovered to date"
Ars Technica
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Microsoft has open-sourced the earliest known source code of DOS, predating the MS-DOS branding. This release includes the 86-DOS 1.00 kernel and utilities like CHKDSK, highlighting the software's historical significance in the evolution of personal computing.
- 01Microsoft has released the earliest known DOS source code, including 86-DOS 1.00.
- 02The release features development snapshots and utilities like CHKDSK.
- 0386-DOS was originally created by Tim Paterson for Intel 8086-based computers.
- 04Microsoft licensed 86-DOS for the IBM PC 5150 and later developed MS-DOS.
- 05This release marks a significant moment in the history of personal computing.
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This week, Microsoft has taken a significant step in preserving computing history by open-sourcing the earliest known source code related to DOS, which predates the MS-DOS branding. The release includes the 86-DOS 1.00 kernel, various development snapshots of the PC-DOS 1.00 kernel, and essential utilities like CHKDSK. The original 86-DOS was developed by Tim Paterson for an Intel 8086-based computer kit sold by Seattle Computer Products. Microsoft, needing an operating system for the IBM PC 5150, licensed 86-DOS and later acquired its rights, leading to the creation of MS-DOS. This release not only showcases Microsoft's commitment to software preservation but also highlights the foundational role DOS played in the rise of personal computing.
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