How to Create a Windows 98 Bootable HDD from a Windows 10 or Windows 11 Computer

Creating a bootable hard disk drive (HDD) with Windows 98 using a modern Windows 10 or Windows 11 computer can be a rewarding project for vintage computing enthusiasts. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can successfully create a bootable Windows 98 HDD.

Requirements

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

1. Windows 98 Installation Media: This can be in the form of an ISO file or original installation CDs.

2. A Spare HDD: Ideally, an IDE drive compatible with older computers. An IDE to USB adapter can be helpful if your modern computer doesn't have IDE ports.

3. A Modern Computer: Running Windows 10 or Windows 11.

4. Rufus: A tool for creating bootable drives.

5. Partitioning Software: Tools like MiniTool Partition Wizard or GParted.

6. MS-DOS Boot Disk Image: For creating a bootable environment.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preparing the Hard Disk

1. Connect the HDD to Your Modern Computer: Use an IDE to USB adapter if necessary.

2. Open Disk Management: Press Win + X and select Disk Management.

3. Initialize the Disk: If prompted, initialize the disk using the MBR partition style.

4. Create a FAT32 Partition:

   • Right-click the unallocated space and select "New Simple Volume."

   • Follow the wizard to create a FAT32 partition that will house Windows 98.

2. Preparing the MS-DOS Environment

1. Download Rufus:

   • Go to the Rufus website and download the latest version.

2. Create a Bootable MS-DOS USB Drive:

   • Insert a USB flash drive into your computer.

   • Open Rufus, select your USB drive, and choose "FreeDOS" under the Boot selection.

   • Click "Start" to create the bootable USB drive.

3. Copying Windows 98 Installation Files

1. Insert the USB Drive: After the bootable MS-DOS environment is created, insert the USB drive into your computer.

2. Copy Windows 98 Installation Files:

   • Copy the contents of your Windows 98 installation media (ISO or CDs) to a directory on your USB drive. This will make it easier to install from the USB drive.

4. Installing Windows 98 on the HDD

1. Boot from the USB Drive:

   • Restart your modern computer and boot from the USB drive containing the MS-DOS environment. You may need to change the boot order in your BIOS/UEFI settings.

2. Partition the HDD:

   • Use FDISK to partition the HDD. Ensure you create a primary partition and set it as active.

   • Format the partition using the FORMAT C: /S command to make it bootable.

3. Copy Installation Files to the HDD:

   • Create a directory on the HDD (e.g., C:\WIN98).

   • Copy the Windows 98 installation files from the USB drive to this directory using the COPY command.

4. Begin the Installation:

   • Navigate to the directory where you copied the Windows 98 installation files.

   • Run SETUP.EXE to start the installation process.

   • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

5. Finalizing the Setup

1. Install Drivers:

   • After Windows 98 is installed, you may need to install drivers for your older hardware. These can usually be found on the manufacturer’s website or included with the hardware.

2. Test the Installation:

   • Connect the HDD to your older computer.

   • Boot from the HDD and ensure that Windows 98 loads correctly.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Compatibility Issues: If the HDD is not recognized by the older computer, ensure the BIOS settings are correct and that the HDD is properly connected.

• Driver Problems: Finding drivers for older hardware can be challenging. Look for community forums and vintage computing websites for help.

• Boot Issues: If the system fails to boot, double-check the active partition and boot order settings in the BIOS.

By following these steps, you should be able to create a bootable Windows 98 HDD using a Windows 10 or Windows 11 computer. This process not only brings back the nostalgia of using an older operating system but also provides an excellent opportunity to learn more about vintage computing and the evolution of technology.