The Multi-Boot Odyssey: Taming the Installation Beast

Taming the Installation Beast

The quest for the perfect multi-boot installation disc continues! This time, we grapple with the complexities of pre-configuring Windows 98's TCP/IP stack. Ideally, a simple copy-paste of files from the installation disc would suffice. After all, DOS installers primarily "expand" pre-compressed files. In theory, copying these expanded files directly should mimic a full installation.

However, the TCP/IP stack throws a wrench in our plans. Unlike a simple file copy, the installer performs magic through AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS. These batch files orchestrate a cascade of file calls, akin to the dependency nightmare encountered in Windows Services. Bypassing this dance proves impossible – the TCP/IP stack remains stubbornly dormant.

Keeping it Simple: A Balancing Act

Despite this setback, the quest for a streamlined installation disc marches on. Here are the guiding principles:

1. Minimal Root Directory: We want a clean, uncluttered root. No scrolling through a cluttered mess when using the trusty DIR command! Fancy options like "/P" (pause) and "/w" (wide format) are tempting, but simplicity reigns supreme.

2. Shallow Directory Structure: Deep directory nesting is FAT16's kryptonite. Long paths create havoc, so we maintain a flat structure.

3. Concise Directory Names: Eight characters are our limit. DOS can handle longer names, but abbreviated versions like "WINNT3~1" create confusion. Imagine two directories named "WINNT351W" and "WINNT351SP" – both morphing into the indistinct "WINNT3~1."

The Art of Compromise: A README to the Rescue

These goals might seem contradictory. After all, where else do files go besides the root or a subdirectory? Our solution? A well-crafted README.TXT file. This humble text document will act as a roadmap, detailing the location of each file within the installation structure. This allows us to maintain a clean root directory while keeping separate any installers that require execution (like the elusive TCP/IP stack).

The Never-Ending Journey

The quest for the perfect multi-boot installation disc is a fascinating exercise in balancing efficiency and practicality. We've encountered unexpected roadblocks, discovered the pitfalls of long filenames, and embraced the power of the lowly README.txt. The journey continues, and with each challenge overcome, we inch closer to a multi-boot utopia! Stay tuned for further adventures as we explore the intricacies of integrating a diverse collection of operating systems.