How to install Windows 3.11 in VMWare 6.5?

By starburst1980
in Microsoft (Windows)

 Share

Recommended Posts

Community Regular

starburst1980

Posted
  • Author
Posted
Educational Purposes ?? or do you mean boredom purposes ?

I think I can safely say there are NO meaningful systems running 3.11 anymore - so as far as it being educational...to what end ?

A bit of both :)

Honestly, I didnt ask "Why should I install it?". Im asking "How to install it?". No questions asked please.

Mentor

goatsniffer

Posted
Posted

Here's a post worth reading...

Get a DOS 6 ISO, select DOS as the guest OS, install DOS, get 3.1 Windows for Workgroups ISO, install from within DOS.

I did it a while back. I got the network working, but I can't remember if I ever got sound up and running. My guess would be to find a DOS Sound Blaster 16 or Sound Blaster 128 driver.

It's kind of harry getting it going, but it's worth it to take a trip back in time to the Comander Keen days.

Community Regular

starburst1980

Posted
  • Author
Posted
Here's a post worth reading...

Get a DOS 6 ISO, select DOS as the guest OS, install DOS, get 3.1 Windows for Workgroups ISO, install from within DOS.

I did it a while back. I got the network working, but I can't remember if I ever got sound up and running. My guess would be to find a DOS Sound Blaster 16 or Sound Blaster 128 driver.

It's kind of harry getting it going, but it's worth it to take a trip back in time to the Comander Keen days.

Thanks :)

  • 2 weeks later...
  • 7 months later...
Community Regular

3aFaReeT

Posted
Posted

Hey Guys,

Just Imagine that our Bank is still using Win3.11 @ our branches cause the Branch Automation system is so old and works perfectly only on Win3.11

So they only way to get it work on new PCs was to migrate it to a Virtual Machine.

I tried my best and made it work at last.

the only this which i really couldn't get is work perfectly is display driver.

so if any one needs drivers I can upload them on Rapidshare or So and post them here..

just let me know :)

Grand Master

+BudMan MVC

Posted
  • MVC
Posted
I've been very interesting in this, too. Does there even exist a fully-working Windows 3.11 virtual machine? I've never found one.
Not sure if any available for download -- but its easy enough to get one running.

post-14624-1263240892_thumb.jpg

See it pinging in that dos box.. Its on the network, etc. etc.. But can't really use the net -- not may places the OLD 16 bit browsers can display ;)

As to the display driver -- there is a patch out there for svga so you can run it in 1024 -- I would of shown that screen shot, but for it work have to run in fullscreen, and since remoted in to my vmware server, etc. fullscreen mode is a bit of pain.. So just ran it in vga mode.

Here's the page you can get the video driver patch from

http://chitchat.at.infoseek.co.jp/vmware/misc.html#win31svga

BTW - make sure you get a dosidle program on it, or it will really suck up the cpu.

  • 2 weeks later...
Community Regular

mpg187

Posted
Posted

First install dos. you can get a dos img from the internet.

installing windows 3.1 needs a valid license so, if you have a license its legal.

Don't you need a license for DOS too?

I have a 3.1 VM, but I am not sure if I can share it. I think it's old enough that no one cares. I seen a thread here with Windows 98 downloads...

Proficient

Madoshi

Posted
Posted (edited)

Don't you need a license for DOS too?

I have a 3.1 VM, but I am not sure if I can share it. I think it's old enough that no one cares. I seen a thread here with Windows 98 downloads...

technically, MS-DOS does require a license just like Windows 3.1

nothing stopping you though, not even MS is gonna bother

as for installing it in a virtual machine, its just like a real PC. if you have a set of floppies for DOS and Windows, and a floppy drive, it really is just like on a real PC.

Community Regular

mpg187

Posted
Posted

nothing stopping you though, not even MS is gonna botherIn that case:

http://psphomebrew.net/psp/forum_posts.asp?TID=2620

as for installing it in a virtual machine, its just like a real PC. if you have a set of floppies for DOS and Windows, and a floppy drive, it really is just like on a real PC.
I have a Windows 3.1 CD ISO, how would I install that? I can't boot it and DOS doesn't recognize it...
Grand Master

+BudMan MVC

Posted
  • MVC
Posted

And where did you get a 3.1 ISO -- I don't believe 3.1 was ever released on cdrom... Even the MS download of 3.11 from msdn or there license service is just an exe.

There are plenty of guides on how to install 3.11 on virtual -- but in your case if you have a ISO, just get cdrom working in your dos environment.. Then access the files on the iso you mounted to a cdrom in your virtual software.

Or just extract the files off the ISO and use them that way -- put on a hard drive image you have mounted to your virtual machines.. There are many many different ways to skin a cat ;)

Proficient

Madoshi

Posted
Posted

And where did you get a 3.1 ISO -- I don't believe 3.1 was ever released on cdrom... Even the MS download of 3.11 from msdn or there license service is just an exe.

one of my old 3.11 boxes of past that had a CD-ROM, had it's source files path set to some nested folder on the CD drive. the directory names in the path (never seen the actual CD, could have been some sysop's burned disc) looked "official". kinda odd it was

Enthusiast

Black Leopard

Posted
Posted

To access your CD under DOS you need to have a CDROM driver and the MSCDEX (or any alternative) CDROM enabler. Or you could just install FreeDOS. It's opensource, compatible with 99% of MS-DOS apps, and include long file names, archive (de)compression and CDROM/NET/NTFS/USB handling OOTB).

This topic is now closed to further replies.
 Share
Go to topic listing

  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    • No registered users viewing this page.

  • Posts

    • Epic Games says Unreal Engine 6 will help developers "build content faster" using AI models

      By thartist · Posted

      If you have the budget...! Some solo or indies just want to either learn or start their game and aren't in a capacity to pay salaries or to contractors... Get real.
    • The Ring and Lilo & Stitch actress Daveigh Chase dies aged 35

      By Nick H. · Posted

      Source and more 35 years old?! And if my maths is mathing, that means she was around 10 when The Ring came out?! Damn...scariest 10 year old I think I've ever seen. 
    • Adobe Acrobat Reader DC 2026.001.21677

      By Copernic · Posted

      Adobe Acrobat Reader DC 2026.001.21677 by Razvan Serea Adobe Acrobat Reader DC software is the free, trusted standard for viewing, printing, signing, and annotating PDFs. Its the only PDF viewer that can open and interact with all types of PDF content – including forms and multimedia. It’s connected to Adobe Document Cloud – so you can work with PDFs on computers and mobile devices. Adobe Document Cloud is a revolutionary, modern and efficient way to get work done with documents in the office, at home or on-the-go. At the heart of Document Cloud is the all-new Adobe Acrobat DC, which will take e-signatures mainstream by delivering free e-signing with every individual subscription. Document Cloud includes a set of integrated services that use a consistent online profile and personal document hub. With Adobe Document Cloud, people will be able to create, review, approve, sign and track documents whether on a desktop or mobile device. Businesses will be able to take advantage of Document Cloud for enterprise which provides enterprise-class document services that integrate into systems of record such as CRM, HCM, CLM, and CMS, adding speed, efficiency and transparency to getting business done with documents. Adobe Acrobat Reader DC new feature highlights: Work with PDFs from anywhere with the new, free Acrobat DC mobile app for Android or iOS. Select functionality is also available on Windows Phone. Use the new Fill & Sign tool in your desktop software to complete PDF forms fast with smart autofill. Download the free Adobe Fill & Sign mobile app to add the same option to your iPad or Android tablet device. Save money on ink and toner when printing from your Windows PC. Store and access files in Adobe Document Cloud with 5GB of free storage. Get instant access to recent files across desktop, web, and mobile devices with Mobile Link. Sync your Fill & Sign autofill collection across desktop, web, and iPad devices. Adobe PDF Pack premium features includes: Convert documents and images to PDF files. Use your mobile device camera to take a picture of a paper document or form and convert it to PDF. Turn PDFs into editable Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or RTF files. Combine multiple files into a single PDF (web only). Get signatures from others with a complete e-signature service. Send, track, and confirm delivery of documents electronically instead of using fax or overnight services (tracking not available on mobile). Store and access files online with 20GB of storage. Download: Adobe Acrobat Reader DC 64-bit | 719.0 MB (Freeware) Link: Adobe Acrobat Reader DC Home Page | Release Notes | Screenshot Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware
    • This is how much iPhone 18 Pro could cost after Apple's price hike confirmed

      By Dutchie64 · Posted

      Everybody will complain, but probably will sell like hotcakes......
    • HONOR launches the HONOR Watch 6 along with early bird discounts and gifts

      By Steven P. · Posted

      HONOR launches the HONOR Watch 6 along with early bird discounts and gifts by Steven Parker Global leading AI device ecosystem company HONOR today announced the launch of the HONOR Watch 6. Engineered to unlock your healthiest potential, HONOR Watch 6 is a cutting-edge smartwatch that flawlessly integrates a light and elegant design with professional sports modes and continuous health tracking powered by the latest HONOR AI capability, catering to those who pursue optimal fitness, sports performance, and holistic health. The HONOR Watch 6 is designed to provide professional-grade workout supports and beyond. Featuring a striking Racing Dashboard Design, The HONOR Watch 6 seamlessly draws inspiration from high-performance air intakes to create a visually dynamic and hardcore technological look. Constructed from recyclable aluminum alloy, this device weighs as little as 41 grams​, achieving exceptional lightness and outstanding durability, making it a reliable companion for active everyday wear. The exterior of the smartwatch is accentuated by precision-crafted beveled edges, enhancing its overall three-dimensional visual effect and perfectly blending ultimate hardcore performance with cutting-edge trend expression. Furthermore, the watch's meticulously polished body undergoes an exquisite and delicate sandblasting process, delivering a luxurious texture comparable to titanium alloy and exuding a highly premium tactile experience. Embracing this bold technological aesthetic, the smartwatch caters to modern sensibilities, offering a flawless blend of high-performance design and premium craftsmanship for discerning users. Equipped with an impressive 120+ sports modes, the new smartwatch offers exceptionally comprehensive tracking that truly stands out by bringing professional-grade analysis right to the wrist. Highlighting this elite capability are specialised sports mode for activities like Trail Running, Badminton, and Football. The Trail Running experience places a special focus on outdoor performance, empowering runners with an AI running coach, detailed climbing and distance metrics, and intelligent route deviation alerts, all tracked precisely by the AccuTrack system dual-band six-star GPS. To ensure flawless operation in any environment, the display features advanced water-touch control, guaranteeing the screen reacts perfectly even with wet hands or during rainy scenarios. For court and field sports, the smartwatch delivers professional-level data—such as badminton smash speeds, consecutive rally tracking, and comprehensive football heat and trajectory maps—providing users with advanced insights to elevate their competitive training. Additionally, the HONOR Watch 6 features IP691 water and dust resistance and is powered by a robust 980mAh battery​, the smartwatch claims to deliver extra durability and a remarkable ultra-long battery life of up to 35 days. This exceptional endurance makes it the perfect companion for rigorous outdoor workouts and extended adventures, ensuring users stay active, fully tracked, and continuously supported without the hassle of frequent charging. The HONOR Watch 6 is designed to make advanced health tracking accessible and effortless for everyday life, seamlessly monitoring vital metrics such as heart rate, blood oxygen, stress levels, and sleep cycles.​ Featuring a Quick Health Scan, users can instantly obtain a comprehensive health analysis of key indicators, offering valuable insights into their physical well-being at any time. An automatic daily report delivers a convenient summary every morning to help start the day with a clear understanding, while the all-day health tracking features continuously monitor essential indicators such as body energy, blood oxygen, and sleep cycles, promoting both physical and mental wellness. Supported by the HONOR IntelliSense system—which utilises richer, more uniform signal acquisition than traditional PPG modules—the watch ensures highly precise heart rate and blood flow tracking. Elevating everyday convenience, the new smartwatch features an ultra-bright display reaching 3,000 nits of peak brightness for crystal-clear visibility in direct sunlight. Adding a dynamic level of customisation, the innovative Video Watch Face allows users to set live photos or short videos under 10 seconds as highly personalised, moving backgrounds. Built for maximum efficiency, the device supports dual-phone pairing to centralise notifications from two smartphones, alongside a built-in AI Recorder that automatically generates smart voice notes and summaries for life on the go. Hands-free control is made effortless through intuitive wrist-twist gestures, letting users silence alarms, manage calls, and skip songs without touching the screen. Rounding out the smart experience, advanced NFC integration supports Mastercard and Visa​5, enabling seamless daily payments without the hassle of pre-loading funds. Pricing and Availability The HONOR Watch 6 will be available in Twilight Brown and Shadow Black to suit diverse tastes. Starting from June 18th 2026 customers can purchase the HONOR Watch from £169.99. For more information on availability and purchasing options, please visit the HONOR online store at www.honor.com/uk/. For the first month on-sale, HONOR is offering an early bird discount of £80 in addition to a gift with purchase of HONOR Choice Earbuds Clip, priced in the UK at £59.99. Look out for our review of it, coming in early July.

  • Recent Achievements

    • Week One Done
      Classifyskilleducation earned a badge
      Week One Done
    • One Month Later
      eurospharma62 earned a badge
      One Month Later
    • Week One Done
      With What earned a badge
      Week One Done
    • Week One Done
      Harris Gilbert earned a badge
      Week One Done
    • One Month Later
      Vincian earned a badge
      One Month Later

  • Popular Contributors

    1. 1
      +primortal
      540
    2. 2
      +Edouard
      169
    3. 3
      PsYcHoKiLLa
      75
    4. 4
      neufuse
      64
    5. 5
      ATLien_0
      63
    Show More

  • Tell a friend

    Love Neowin? Tell a friend!