MS-DOS supports program execution through specific file types: .EXE, .BAT, and .COM. The architecture is designed to load and execute these files directly from the command line. .EXE files represent fully developed programs and their execution involves loading the program's code and static data into memory. .COM files typically contain smaller, simpler executable programs due to their lack of specific headers, allowing quicker loading. .BAT files are scripts for executing a series of commands, leveraging DOS's command line capabilities for automation. While MS-DOS executes these files efficiently due to its minimalistic design, the lack of multitasking and modern features like dynamic linking remain inherent limitations in executing complex or concurrent programs .

MS-DOS handles user inputs primarily through a command-line interface, where commands are entered using a keyboard. It operates via standard DOS commands, which are either part of the operating system or require an executable program's filename. Although MS-DOS does not support a graphical user interface natively, it can run graphical programs if installed on a system disk. Once a graphical program is executed by entering a command, it takes control of the input and output devices. After the program terminates, control returns to MS-DOS, displaying the command prompt again .

The bootstrap program is the initial code executed when a computer system is started, and it resides in the ROM, which is a non-volatile memory. The primary role of the bootstrap program is to load the operating system into the RAM after the system starts. This process is crucial because it allows the operating system to access device drivers and perform tasks necessary for the functioning of the computer. The bootstrapping process ensures that no outside input is needed to begin, facilitating the loading of software incrementally. By starting with simpler programs and progressively loading more complex ones, the system initializes effectively without needing to load all software automatically .

MS-DOS is fundamentally different from modern operating systems such as Windows or Linux in both functionality and structure. MS-DOS is a simple, single-user, 16-bit operating system that does not support multitasking, has no GUI, and relies on command-line inputs. It is lightweight, lacking encryption and security features necessary for safe public network usage. In contrast, modern operating systems offer multitasking capabilities, robust graphical user interfaces, enhanced security features, and support for networking and advanced hardware. They are typically designed to handle multiple users simultaneously and provide more sophisticated memory management, unlike MS-DOS, where memory access is challenging .

MS-DOS uses two main types of commands: internal and external. Internal commands are embedded within the DOS and are automatically loaded into memory during the booting process. These commands are designed for basic file and directory operations, such as copying or erasing files, and do not require external file support. In contrast, external commands perform advanced tasks and are not stored within COMMAND.com. They reside in external files on secondary storage devices, which are loaded into memory when needed. External commands are used less frequently due to their specialized functions and storage requirements .

MS-DOS is still used today primarily for specific purposes where its simplicity and resource efficiency are advantageous. In educational contexts, MS-DOS provides a straightforward platform to teach basic computing concepts and historical software operation. For legacy systems, its longstanding reliability justifies continued use where systems may not require frequent updates or where budgets do not allow for costly upgrades. In the realm of embedded systems, MS-DOS supports hardware with x86 architectures, maintaining compatibility with legacy devices. It also serves in executing classic computer games and software that are still reliant on DOS, demonstrating a specific but enduring niche utility .

The booting process in MS-DOS involves loading several key system files into memory, each with specific roles. IO.SYS is a hidden executable that includes the default device drivers and initialization programs, necessary for the basic setup upon boot. MSDOS.SYS is a system file that contains configurations, mostly as binary switches determining specific operational parameters. Finally, COMMAND.COM serves as the command-line interpreter, providing the user interface for entering commands and executing batch files. These files collectively prepare the system for operation by establishing fundamentals needed for MS-DOS environment functionality .

The bootstrapping process is significant because it initializes both hardware and software components in a systematic manner. This process begins with hardware procedures and leads into the software procedures stored in the main memory. At each stage, a simpler program loads a more complex one. Initially, self-tests are conducted, followed by loading the BIOS, configuration settings, hypervisor, and the operating system. This incremental loading process is crucial for system stability and performance, ensuring each component is correctly initialized before transitioning to the next stage. It is this sequential and hierarchical method that enables the computer to start effectively .

Some organizations continue to use MS-DOS for several reasons. Firstly, legacy systems that depend on MS-DOS have been used reliably over decades, making it cost-prohibitive for organizations to upgrade to newer systems. Secondly, MS-DOS is optimal for embedded systems, particularly in devices that use the x86 processor architecture. Additionally, MS-DOS is essential for running classic computer games and older software that still support this operating system. The educational value of understanding its simplicity and functioning is also a factor in continued use .

MS-DOS has several limitations that impact its usability in modern computing. One major limitation is its lack of multitasking capabilities, which prevents running multiple applications concurrently, making it inefficient in environments that require simultaneous processes. Additionally, MS-DOS lacks security features such as encryption, making it unsuitable for use across public networks. Its text-based interface without a GUI makes interaction less intuitive and user-friendly compared to modern systems. Furthermore, the ease with which files can be deleted without warnings poses risks to data integrity. These limitations collectively reduce MS-DOS’s viability for contemporary applications requiring advanced, secure, and multi-user operations .