How to Install Windows 3.1

Installing Windows 3.1

1. When you see this screen, insert the Windows 3.1 setup floppy.

2. Type A and :. Then press ↵ Enter.

3. Type setup. Then press ↵ Enter.

4. Press ↵ Enter.

5. Pick your setup mode. It's a matter of personal preference but for this tutorial, we will use the "Express Setup".

6. Insert the "Microsoft Windows 3.1 Disk #2" floppy disk and press ↵ Enter.

7. Insert the "Microsoft Windows 3.1 Disk #3" floppy disk and press ↵ Enter.

8. Type in your name and press Continue.

   1. You can type in your company if you wish but it isn't essential to the installation process.

9. Check that your name and company correct and then click Continue.

   1. If you have made a mistake, click change and correct the mistake.

10. Insert the "Microsoft Windows 3.1 Disk #4" floppy disk and click Continue.

11. Insert the "Microsoft Windows 3.1 Disk #5" floppy disk and click Continue.

12. Insert the "Microsoft Windows 3.1 Disk #6" floppy disk and click Continue.

13. If you wish to install a printer, click your desired printed and click Install.

    1. For this tutorial, we will not be installing a printer so make sure "No Printer Attached" is highlighted and click install.

14. If you see this message, do the following:

    1. Confirm that the message displays C:DOSEDIT.COM
    2. Make sure that "MS-DOS Editor" is highlighted
    3. Click OK.

15. Use "Run tutorial" if you are used to newer operating systems. Windows 3.1 is very different (it doesn't have a Start menu)!

    1. For this article, "Skip Tutorial" was selected.

16. Remove all floppy disks from the computer and click Reboot.

17. Type in win and press ↵ Enter

18. If the setup has ran correctly, you will see this screen and Windows 3.1 is up and running to use.

Shutting Down

Windows 3.1 doesn't have a fancy 'Shut Down' button so you must follow the steps taken below (ensure you've saved all your work first):

1. Click File.

2. Click Exit Windows.

3. Click OK.

4. When you see this screen, you are safe to turn your computer off via the button on the computer or to unplug it.