DOSBox is a free, open-source DOS emulator for running older programs and games that may not work on newer computers. It emulates 286 and 386 CPUs in real and protected modes, as well as XMS and EMS memory. Its graphics emulation covers Tandy, Hercules, CGA, EGA, VGA, and VESA; its sound emulation includes SoundBlaster and Gravis UltraSound cards. Users can mount floppy and CD-ROM disk images, including ISO and CUE/BIN formats. DOSBox also supports IPX networking through its internal IPXNET program and can emulate a serial nullmodem connection over a network or the internet. The site identifies version 0.74-3 as the latest version and lists builds or packages for Mac OS X, Windows, Fedora, and Debian, plus source code. Its game compatibility list uses labels such as runnable, playable, and supported. For untrusted files, the site recommends secure mode, which disables MOUNT, IMGMOUNT, and BOOT. Questions about using DOSBox or a specific game can be directed to its forum.
Who it is for
DOSBox suits people who want to run older DOS programs or games on Windows, Linux, or macOS. Its networking and disk-image features may also suit users working with older software setups.
What is good
- Emulates DOS-era CPUs, memory, graphics, and sound.
- Mounts floppy and CD-ROM images, including ISO and CUE/BIN.
- Supports IPX networking and serial nullmodem connections.
- Free, open-source, with source code available.
What to know first
- Secure mode disables MOUNT, IMGMOUNT, and BOOT.
- The site identifies version 0.74-3 as the latest version.
Verdict
DOSBox provides a range of DOS hardware emulation and disk-image support for older software and games. Users handling untrusted files should note that its recommended secure mode disables mounting and boot commands.
DOSBox plans and pricing
All plansCompared on MS-DOS emulators
- Free plan
- Yes
- Supported host platforms
- Windows, Linux, macOS
- DOS target versions
- dos-compatible
- Disk image formats
- ISO, CUE/BIN, CUE/IMG, floppy images, hard-drive images
- Gamepad support
- Yes
- Audio CD support
- Yes
- Source available
- Yes
