After completing a low-level format on a hard disk, what is the correct next step when configuring the drive for MS-DOS usage before installing the operating system?

Introduction / Context:
Legacy disk preparation follows a specific sequence. A low-level format initializes tracks and sectors at the controller level. Next you must define logical partitions so that a filesystem can later be created within each partition. Skipping or reordering these steps prevents the OS from recognizing usable volumes.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The drive has just undergone a low-level format (controller level initialization).
• You are preparing the disk for DOS or DOS-based Windows.
• Standard utilities like FDISK and FORMAT are available.

Concept / Approach:
The correct workflow is: 1) low-level format (rarely user-performed on IDE; historically on some controllers), 2) partition the disk with FDISK to create Primary and Extended partitions and Logical drives, 3) high-level format each created partition to build the filesystem, and 4) install the operating system onto a formatted partition. Therefore, immediately after a low-level format, the next required action is to partition the disk.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Entering FDISK /STATUS displays current partition structures. After partitioning but before formatting, the OS will list the partitions but they will not yet contain a filesystem; after high-level formatting, directory structures appear.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Format DOS partition: You cannot format a partition that has not yet been created.
• Install operating system: The installer requires a valid formatted partition.
• Configure DMA channel and back up interrupt: Not a standard disk-prep step for DOS disks.
• None of the above: Incorrect because partitioning is the proper next step.

Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting to make the Primary partition active, formatting the wrong drive letter, or assuming low-level formatting replaces the need for FDISK and FORMAT.

Final Answer:
Partition hard disk