MS-DOS utilities — understanding FDISK: What does the FDISK command in DOS actually do to a hard drive before formatting and installing an operating system?

Introduction / Context:
Before a hard disk can be formatted and used by MS-DOS or Windows 9x era systems, it must be divided into logical sections called partitions. The classic DOS tool for this job is FDISK. Understanding what FDISK does (and does not do) is essential for vintage system setup and exam preparation.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are working in a DOS environment or DOS-mode utility set.
• The disk has not yet been partitioned or its partitions must be redefined.
• Subsequent steps like formatting occur after partitioning.

Concept / Approach:

Disk preparation traditionally occurs in stages: partitioning, formatting, and then installing the file system and OS. FDISK performs the partitioning stage by creating, deleting, and setting active partitions (primary, extended, logical). Formatting (FORMAT) comes afterward to create file system structures in the chosen partition(s).

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Historical DOS manuals list FDISK options such as Create DOS partition, Set active partition, and Delete partition. None of these options perform low-level format or cluster repair, confirming the specific purpose.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Fixes erroneous hard drive: repair utilities are separate (e.g., SCANDISK/CHKDSK).
• Formats data sectors: FORMAT performs this, not FDISK.
• Checks for lost clusters: SCANDISK/CHKDSK handle file system issues, not FDISK.
• None of the above: incorrect because partitioning is exactly FDISK's job.

Common Pitfalls:

Confusing partitioning with formatting; skipping a reboot after FDISK; forgetting to set the active partition, which prevents booting.

Final Answer:

Partitions the hard drive for use