The Multi-Boot Configuration Handbook

DOS and Windows 9x

As the original OS for x86 hardware, DOS is in many ways the most primitive when it comes to working beside other OSs. Based on DOS, Windows 9x has inherited many of DOS's ways with respect to peaceful coexistence with other OSs. Windows 9x has expanded on DOS's repertoire, however, when it comes to hard disk size and filesystem support.

Partition Requirements

Both DOS and Windows 9x must boot from a primary partition on the first physical disk or from a floppy disk. Assuming you boot from a hard disk, the boot partition becomes known as drive C:. Both OSs can access additional partitions, whether they are primary or logical, on both the first hard disk and on subsequent disks, provided those partitions belong to the set ...