The IBM compatible computer needs the minimum of the below three files to boot to an MS-DOS prompt.

command.com io.sys msdos.sys

The above files are the absolute minimum. If an external command, like fdisk, needs to be performed, that file also needs to be copied to the disk or drive.

Other operating systems use different files to boot into their operating system. These files are only for computers booting into MS-DOS.

  • Steps on creating a bootable diskette.
  • How does a computer work?
  • POST troubleshooting steps.
  • Computer boot disk help and support.