Ok! The computer is operational.

If you don't have a BOOT disk you can make one (assuming they didn't remove the C:\DOS\SYS.COM file too). See Boot Disk for making a boot disk so you have an alternative way to boot the computer. Be sure to test the disk to make sure the computer is set to allow booting from a Floppy disk. If not, you would have to get into the BIOS Setup. If you have a boot disk and using the method Vernon suggested to access the BIOS, you will have the tools to get going again.

Now back to the prompt. When the computer first boots you should see "Starting MSDOS" (unless it is running on DOS 5.0). In the DOS windows type:
ver

This will display the version number for the DOS installed.

When you get to the prompt follow the previous post for finding what files are on the computer.
Type:
DIR C:\DOS\*.* /a
If you see a lot of files, then you may have something to work with. If security was the first order, most of the DOS file will be gone. In that case files like attrib.exe and will be missing. You would then need a boot disk (any version) that has those commands on it so you can change the settings of file on this computer.

Let us know where this gets you. See Windows 3.1/3.11 Menu for more information. The Troubleshooting section will most likely be of little help as you are suffering from security limitations, not malfunctions. If files are missing, you will need another source for replacement files such as install disks for the Windows.
------------------
My

Dennis
Politalk

[This message has been edited by Eeyore (edited 01-11-2001).]