Legacy drive setup workflow: After performing a low-level format on a hard drive, what is the next step to prepare the disk for use by the operating system?

Introduction / Context:
Classic drive initialization involved distinct stages: low-level formatting (physical), partitioning (logical layout), and high-level formatting (file system). Understanding the correct order avoids wasted effort and ensures the OS recognizes the disk properly.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• A low-level format has just been completed (rare on modern drives, common historically).
• The OS expects a partition table defining at least one usable partition.
• High-level format creates the file system inside a selected partition.

Concept / Approach:

After a low-level format defines physical tracks/sectors, you must create partitions using a tool such as FDISK (or modern equivalents). Only after partitioning can you run a high-level format (e.g., FORMAT C:) to put a file system in place. Installing the OS comes last, after a formatted, mounted partition exists.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Disk management tools should show the created partition table; drive letters mount; a directory structure appears after high-level format, confirming readiness for OS installation.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Format DOS partition: Premature if you have not created the partition yet.
• Install operating system: Requires an existing, formatted partition.
• Configure DMA/interrupt: Not a typical step in standard disk prep.
• None of the above: Incorrect because partitioning is the proper next step.

Common Pitfalls:

Skipping the active flag on the primary partition; formatting the wrong drive; mis-sizing partitions for the chosen file system’s limits.

Final Answer:

Partition hard disk