MS-DOS precursor, 86-DOS, was first released in April 1981 and was seemingly lost in time as another beta version of the software Microsoft used before it became as big as it is today.
Now, over 30 years later, one of the earliest versions of the 86-DOS has finally been found and uploaded back to the internet, Ars Technica reported.
Internet Archive user f15sim announced the discovery of the 86-DOS Version 0.34-C, first published in 1980 and "likely the 2nd oldest known version to survive."
A picture of the original disk along with a copy of its code was uploaded on the platform on Dec. 31, 2023. User f15sim has yet to disclose how they got hold of the old disk.
When accessed, one of the nine files contained inside the disk is a chess simulator.
Why is the 86-DOS Important?
For years, many tech historians and enthusiasts have been looking for earlier versions of old program software that led to the programs we use today. One of those is the 86-DOS software.
86-DOS, more initially referred to as the Quick and Dirty Operating System (QDOS), was developed by Tim Paterson during his employment at Seattle Computer Products.
The QDOS was later renamed to 86-DOS after the Intel 8086 which the software initially runs. It is also the same software Microsoft bought and built its iconic MS-DOS.
Both operating software made significant marks in tech history as platforms for software and programs that our modern operating systems were based on.
Paterson, now 67, has yet to respond to the discovery of his earlier works.
What is the Internet Archive?
Many artifacts from the past have been or soon will be lost in time.
The Internet Archive's purpose is to record that information, from manuscripts and documents to videos and audio, for the people to access it on the internet for free.
Many of the data that many thought had been forever lost suddenly appear on the platform. Various users are free to upload on the site to archive relevant pieces of history.
For its free-for-all archiving economy, many companies and corporations have tried to shut down the site for copyright infringement. Internet Archive continues to operate as of writing.
