Can a DOS computer access the internet?

skarydrunkguy

Senior member
May 18, 2003
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Does anyone know if there is a service or program that will allow a DOS computer (specifically Concurrent DOS and MS-DOS) to access the internet? Not for surfing and checking email, but simply sending and receiving files via SFTP (ok, ok, I know its not technically the internet). The action would be fully scripted and the user would not need to see anything or interact at all. We currently use Smartcom III for direct modem to modem communication, but as of Jan. 1, 2008, the modems on the other side will be shut off. I'm not looking for a dissertation on how to do it, just if its possible.
 

Smilin

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Mar 4, 2002
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Via eithernet it's pretty easy with a network boot diskette.

Not sure about doing it with PPP and a modem tho.
 

Brazen

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Jul 14, 2000
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You should be able to use putty from the command line for sftp. Or if you want to use regular old ftp, there is a command line program called "ftp" built into Windows that is probaby available on some versions of DOS.

Some more information might be helpful, such as what version of CDOS and what version of MS-DOS?

Also keep in mind that if you leave these computers connected to the internet, and they aren't behind a hardware firewall blocking ALL incoming connections, they will very quickly hacked and/or loaded with viri since neither MS-DOS or CDOS has had security updates in ages.
 

Nohr

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Jan 6, 2001
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I did it once on a 386 a few years ago just to see if I could. Had MS-DOS 6.22 sharing files over the lan and browsing the net with Arachne.

It took some effort and research but it is possible.
 

t0mn8r

Member
Nov 6, 2005
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Yes, a DOS computer can use FTP. There are still some old utils out there. I have an old DOS TCP/IP boot disk which I pick up from Bart's Bootdisks

Really old skool though...

Don't ask me for any details though coz I'm so old and senile.....

HTH
 

htne

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Dec 31, 2001
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Originally posted by: skarydrunkguy
Does anyone know if there is a service or program that will allow a DOS computer (specifically Concurrent DOS and MS-DOS) to access the internet? Not for surfing and checking email, but simply sending and receiving files via SFTP (ok, ok, I know its not technically the internet).

Yes, it is the internet. You probably meant to say that it is not the WWW (World Wide Web).