DOSBox: an x86 Emulator for MS-DOS

(This page is very much under construction)

What is DOSBox?

DOSBox is a free, open-source cross-platform MS-DOS emulator that uses the SDL library. It emulates CPU:286/386 realmode/protected mode, Directory FileSystem/XMS/EMS, Tandy/Hercules/CGA/EGA/VGA/VESA graphics, and SoundBlaster/Gravis Ultra Sound cards. Thus, it is possible to run many programs originally written for MS-DOS in Linux with DOSBox.

The emulator has been largely developed for use with old games, but it may be possible to use DOSBox to run other MS-DOS applications. The DOSBox project maintains a [url http://dosbox.sourceforge.net/comp_list.php?letter=a list of compatible games].

To run more recent applications developed for Windows, use WINE.

Installing DOSBox

Adding Repositories

DOSBox is available from the Universe repositories. Add them to {/etc/apt/sources.list} according to the directions in the AddingRepositoriesHowto page.

Installation

After you have added the Universe repositories, update, and install DOSBox via Synaptic or via the commandline with

{ $ sudo apt-get install dosbox }

Running DOSBox

Starting DOSBox

DOSBox can be run from a terminal by simply typing {dosbox}.