Installing QBasic on Windows 10 is a straightforward process that allows you to run and write QBasic programs, an excellent way to dive into programming. You’ll need to download a DOS emulator like DOSBox, as QBasic was designed for older operating systems. Once installed, you’ll be able to run your programs smoothly within the DOSBox environment. Here’s a step-by-step guide to set you on your programming journey.
This tutorial will guide you through each step needed to successfully install and run QBasic on a Windows 10 machine. By the end, you’ll be set up to start exploring or revisiting the world of QBasic programming.
Step 1: Download DOSBox
First, download DOSBox from the official website and install it on your computer.
DOSBox is a program that emulates the DOS operating system, which allows you to run QBasic on modern machines. It’s essential for this process because QBasic was originally designed to work within DOS. Make sure you download the correct version for your operating system.
Step 2: Download QBasic
Next, find a QBasic file online, download it, and save it to your computer.
While not available from official Microsoft sources, QBasic can be found on various educational or archival sites. Ensure that you are downloading it from a reputable source to avoid any unnecessary security risks.
Step 3: Create a QBasic Folder
Create a folder on your C: drive named “QBasic” and place the downloaded QBasic files in this folder.
By storing all related files in one location, you make it easier for DOSBox to find and run QBasic. This step helps keep your files organized, making troubleshooting much simpler if any issues arise.
Step 4: Configure DOSBox
Open the DOSBox program and mount the QBasic folder by typing: mount c c:QBasic.
This command tells DOSBox where to find your QBasic folder. It acts like pointing DOSBox to a specific filing cabinet drawer, ensuring it knows where to look to access QBasic.
Step 5: Run QBasic
Change the directory to your new QBasic folder using the command c: then run QBasic by typing QBASIC.
These final commands launch QBasic, allowing you to start coding. You’ll see the QBasic interface, where you can write, edit, and execute your programs.
Once these steps are completed, you’ll have a fully operational QBasic environment on your Windows 10 computer. You can now write and execute QBasic programs as if you were back in the good old days of DOS computing.
Tips for Installing QBasic in Windows 10
- Always download QBasic from a reputable source to ensure your computer’s security.
- Familiarize yourself with basic DOS commands as they are essential for navigating DOSBox.
- Avoid spaces in folder names to prevent confusion when typing DOS commands.
- Regularly save your work to avoid losing progress in case of a crash.
- Consider reading introductory QBasic tutorials to make the most out of your new setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use QBasic directly on Windows 10?
No, QBasic requires a DOS environment, which is why DOSBox is necessary.
Is DOSBox safe to use?
Yes, DOSBox is widely used and considered safe for running DOS applications.
Where can I find QBasic to download?
QBasic can be found on various educational archive websites. Ensure the source is reputable.
Will installing QBasic affect my current Windows setup?
No, installing QBasic using DOSBox does not alter your Windows system; it runs within a separate environment.
Can I uninstall QBasic easily?
Yes, simply delete the QBasic folder and uninstall DOSBox if you no longer wish to use them.
Summary
- Download and install DOSBox.
- Download QBasic from a reputable source.
- Create a “QBasic” folder on your C: drive.
- Mount the QBasic folder in DOSBox.
- Run QBasic using DOSBox commands.
Conclusion
Installing QBasic in Windows 10 might seem like a blast from the past, but it’s a rewarding experience for anyone interested in retro programming or learning the basics of coding. DOSBox provides a simple solution for running these classic applications, bridging the gap between old and new technology. With QBasic, you’re not just looking at a programming language; you’re stepping into the early days of personal computing, where creativity began with a blank screen and a blinking cursor.
This journey allows you to appreciate how far technology has come while learning fundamental programming concepts that still apply today. Once you’re set up, don’t stop at just installing QBasic. Dive into writing your first program, experiment with different commands, and join online communities where enthusiasts share tips and code snippets. The possibilities are endless, and who knows—you might just ignite a passion for coding that leads to more advanced programming languages. Happy coding!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.
How to Install QBasic in Windows 10
Installing QBasic on Windows 10 might sound like a blast from the past, but it’s entirely possible and a lot simpler than you might think. This guide will walk you through downloading QBasic, setting up a DOS emulator, and running QBasic on your Windows 10 machine. Let’s get started!
By following these steps, you’ll have QBasic running on your Windows 10 system in no time. We’ll use DOSBox, a popular DOS emulator, to make this possible.
Step 1: Download DOSBox
To run QBasic on Windows 10, you first need to download and install DOSBox.
Head over to the DOSBox website and download the latest version. Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Step 2: Download QBasic
Next, you need to download the QBasic program itself.
Search for QBasic version 1.1 online and download the zip file. It’s free and available on various software archive sites. Make sure to download it from a reputable source to avoid malware.
Step 3: Extract QBasic Files
Extract the downloaded QBasic zip file to a folder on your computer.
You can use any unzipping tool like WinRAR or 7-Zip for this. When extracting, choose or create a folder (e.g., C:QBasic) where you want to store the files.
Step 4: Configure DOSBox
Now, you need to set up DOSBox to recognize your QBasic directory.
Open DOSBox and type the following command: mount c c:QBasic. This command tells DOSBox to use the QBasic folder as its C: drive. Then type C: to switch to the newly mounted drive.
Step 5: Run QBasic
Finally, run QBasic within DOSBox.
Type QBASIC.EXE and press Enter. This command will launch QBasic inside DOSBox, and you’re ready to start coding!
Once you complete these steps, QBasic will be up and running on your Windows 10 machine, allowing you to write and execute BASIC programs just like in the old days.
Tips for Installing QBasic in Windows 10
- Save Files in the Right Directory: Always save your QBasic programs in the C:QBasic folder to keep things organized.
- Adjust DOSBox Settings: Modify the DOSBox configuration file (dosbox.conf) to customize your experience. You can set it to automatically mount and start QBasic.
- Keep It Simple: You don’t need to install any complex IDEs or additional software—just DOSBox and QBasic.
- Run in Full Screen: Press Alt + Enter to toggle full screen mode in DOSBox for a more immersive experience.
- Back Up Your Work: Create backups of your QBasic programs to avoid losing any work due to unexpected crashes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is QBasic free to use?
Yes, QBasic is free to download and use. It’s an old software, so it’s often available on educational and archive sites.
Can I run QBasic directly on Windows 10 without DOSBox?
No, QBasic requires a DOS environment to run, which is why DOSBox is necessary.
What is DOSBox?
DOSBox is an emulator that creates a DOS-like environment, allowing you to run old DOS programs on modern operating systems.
Are there any alternatives to QBasic?
Yes, FreeBASIC and QB64 are modern alternatives that offer similar functionality with additional features.
Can I use QBasic for modern programming tasks?
QBasic is primarily educational and is not recommended for modern software development. However, it’s great for learning the basics of programming.
Summary
- Download DOSBox.
- Download QBasic.
- Extract QBasic files.
- Configure DOSBox.
- Run QBasic.
Conclusion
So there you have it! Installing QBasic on Windows 10 is a straightforward process that brings a piece of computing history back to life. Using DOSBox as an emulator, you can easily download, set up, and run QBasic to relive those early programming days or to introduce a new generation to the joys of coding in BASIC. Whether you’re brushing up on your skills or diving into retro programming for the first time, this guide has everything you need to get started. Happy coding! If you’re looking for more information on emulators or retro software, consider checking out other guides and resources.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.
Read his full bio here.
QBASIC stands for Quick Beginner All purpose Symbolic Instruction Code. It is a popular high level language for school level students. QBASIC is included in computer science of lower secondary and secondary (only 9 and 10) level. Students learn fundamental skills of programming through QBASIC in school level. QBASIC is best programming language for school students to know the concept of programming. All the basics of programming such as variable, operator, branching, looping, file handling can be learnt from QBASIC.
How to download QBASIC in windows
There are two version of QBASIC. One is 32 bit and another is 64 bit. Most of the windows 10 operating system are 64 bit.
To download 32 bit QBASIC
Click the link here.
To download 64 bit QBASIC
Click the link here. Download the QB64 file from the given link.
Once you have clicked the link, you will be navigated to official website of QBASIC.
The downloaded file is a zip file. We need to extract the zip file. Extract the zip file in desired location.
After extracting we will see the QB application as shown in the image, click on QB64 icon. Now you are successfully running QBASIC in your windows 10.
Note: Please download winrar to unzip zip file if you are unable to extract. Click here.
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Windows with QBasic and QuickBASIC — Working Solutions
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QBasic with MS-DOS or DOSBox
These software packages (DOS 6.22 VM and BASIC to DOSBox) provided for downloading fully contains the following development environments: QBasic 1.1 Interpreter as well as QuickBASIC 4.5, QBX 7.1 and Visual Basic for DOS Compilers. All components are preinstalled in MS-DOS v6.22 Operating System as a Virtual Machine or preconfigured for DOSBox Emulator.
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QBasic/QuickBASIC with up-to-date Windows Editions — Two Solution Methods
Since Qbasic and QuickBASIC cannot be executed on present-day operating systems directly, two different solutions are subsequently provided for download. Both are comprehensive software bundles containing all major QBasic and QuickBASIC releases as well as VisualBASIC for DOS.
Virtual Machine (Abbreviation: VM)
An entire operating system, in this case DOS v6.22, will be provided as a guest system in order to run QBasic in its initial environment.
DOS Emulator
While almost every operating system can be executed in a VM, a DOS emulator supports only a single OS. This provides the advantage, that even outdated hardware is still supported, e.g. Graphics and Sound Cards. To this end, DOSBox offers a wide range of options to customize the config file. Furthermore, there’s the option to throttle down CPU speed to simulate outdated processor units. Also displaying in full screen mode has been integrated flawlessly. Mounting external folders as standalone drives is another outstanding feature.
Conclusion
Due to advantages mentioned above, DOS emulators are definitely preferable to virtual machines. However, if you need to run QBasic in its original environment or want to use DOS v6.22 with all its opportunities, the virtual machine is the right choice.
Basic 2 DOSBox
by: Crossroads
This handy tool copies the selected versions of BASIC (QBasic 1.1, QuickBASIC 4.5, QuickBASIC Extended 7.1 and/or Visual Basic for DOS) with just a few clicks to your hard drive and creates configuration files and shortcuts. Ready to use with DOSBox! For more information, refer to QBasic with DOSBox, Part 4
«BASIC 2 DOSBox» should run on all modern Windows OS’s (both x86 and x64), such as: Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10 and Windows 11. Tested with these OS’s:
- Windows XP Professional Service Pack 3 (x86)
- Windows 7 Ultimate Service Pack 1 (x86)
- Windows 10 Pro Version 2004 (x64)
- Windows 11 Pro Version 21H2 (x64)
MS DOS 6.22 VM
by: Microsoft
That will work on all newer Windows OS’s (x86 and 64bit) such as Windows Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10 and Windows 11.
This package contains DOS 6.22 with pre-installed QBasic 1.1, QuickBasic 4.5, QuickBasic Extended 7.1 and VisualBasic for DOS.
Requirements (Freeware):
- Download and install VM Player
- Download and unpack MS-DOS 6.22
Start VM Player and run MS-DOS 6.22; when asked whether it was copied or moved, select moved. Now you’ll have four options:
-
Run QBasic 1.1 (Interpreter only):
- Simply type in: «qbasic» (always without quotes) and hit ENTER ⏎
-
Run QuickBasic 4.5 (Compiler):
- type in: «cd qb45» ENTER ⏎
- type in: «qb» ENTER ⏎
-
Run Quickbasic Extended 7.1 PDS (Professional Development System) aka QBX:
- type in: «cd qbx\bin» ENTER ⏎
- type in: «qbx» ENTER ⏎
-
Run Visual Basic for DOS:
- type in: «cd vbdos» ENTER ⏎
- type in: «vbdos» ENTER ⏎
Download MS-DOS 6.22 now by clicking the Download Button below!
How to start or run QBasic?Writing and running a new program:
You can download Qbasic if you have a 32 bit as it was initially made for those version computer. We can download qb64 from their official website to run Qbasic on our computer. First, open your browser on your pc and search qb64 download as shown below.
After you search for “qb64 download” new interface will appear on your screen as shown below.
Open the official website of qb64 to download a legitimate and trusted qbasic interpreter.
You can see the list to download the qb64 go with the latest stable version of qb64.
Once you click on the download qb64 latest stable version you will be redirected to the download link for qb64 click on the link for specific operating systems and download will start automatically. This version of Basic will be installed in whatever your machine is(from windows 7 to windows 10 to windows 11)
How to start or run QBasic?
Please download our app by clicking the image below:
If the above link is not working. You can use this link –> https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.allbachelor.qbasicapp
To start QBasic, first you should have QBasic installed on your PC.In our case we had just downloaded qb64 program, so you don’t have to worry about qbasic.
On your desktop click “Start”
Click on the folder where you extracted:
Start choose .exe file system from the file:
Then the qbasic development window appears:
Press the ESC key from your keyboard to clear the welcome message.
If you don’t want to install a built-in compiler on your computer or laptop, you may always use online compilers from websites such as tutorialspoint, replicat.com, and others.
Writing and running a new program:
After opening QBasic window type the following in the QBasic interpreter:
PRINT “Hello World!” <press enter>
This code displays a “Hello World” message to the user.
Now press F5 to run the program. You will see the black screenwriting Hello World! At the top. Press any key to return to the main screen
You can write more complex programs after this short program, which will be covered in later part.