Remember DOS? That was -- is -- the basic operating system that underlies Windows. Before Windows came out, all PCs used DOS, which was text-based rather than graphics based. Some businesses still use DOS-based applications, as do some consumers; these days, rather than havng to leave Windows in order to run them, you can run them in a separate window and then simply close the window when you're finished.
More Printers / Scanners Quick Tips
Printing from a DOS application is usually not a problem. However, if you use DOS apps, and you are shopping for a printer, be aware that there are a few printers that use a USB connection to your computer than cannot print from DOS -- specifically, some Epson Stylus Color and Stylus Photo series inkjet printers. There is no fix for this currently, so the best thing to do is, if you plan to use a new printer with a DOS-based program, make sure that the printer will work with DOS before you buy it.
For more information, check out Microsoft's support site.
