When running DOS (real mode), a 386 or later CPU operates as a "Turbo 8088." This indicates that the CPU has a performance advantage while running 16-bit applications. Otherwise, it can only use 16-bit instructions and access memory inside the original 8088's 1MB memory map. As a result, if you have a modern 32-bit or 64-bit CPU running Windows 3.x or DOS, you are basically just using the first megabyte of RAM, leaving the rest completely idle!

It was necessary to develop new operating systems and programs that could run in the 32-bit protected mode of current CPUs. As users, we rejected all attempts to convert to a 32-bit environment because we were obstinate. People are resistive to change, and they prefer to run existing software rather than adopting new software with new capabilities. I'll be the first to admit that I used to be (and still am) one of those obstinate users!

Because of this resistance, real 32-bit operating systems took a long time to gain traction in the PC industry. Because Microsoft forced us in that way with Windows 9x/Me (which are mixed 16-bit/32-bit systems), Windows XP was the first real 32-bit OS to become a truly mainstream product. Because it operated on top of DOS, some people did not believe Windows 3.x to be a complete operating system.

Download