CMOS

[Nathan]

We need to settle a bet here. Does 95/98 at any time write to CMOS. It can be a Compaq (or like) or a clone.

Thanks

[MaxVal]

While not an authority on this, I would be very concerned to find the OS could meddle with the BIOS settings.
My vote goes to no.
MAX

[Nathan]

That was my guess too. But I read that it does. But now I can't confirm this.

[Comtech]

No, Windows does not write to the CMOS.
In the case of a Compaq though, where the setup information is stored on a section of the HD, yes, windows can write to the CMOS. Although this should only occur during a virus attack.
Remember the Win95CIH virus? It can write to your CMOS.

[Nathan]

If you change the time in Windows, does it change it in CMOS?

[philipg]

If you change the time in windows it has to change to time in cmos because next boot will have the wrong time if it doesn't.

[DavidX]

Yup, Windows changes the time in CMOS. And so does DOS for that matter. Also the day and date of course.

I believe you can also change other CMOS settings through a diagnostics program running under Windows or DOS but that would be a deliberate action on your part as opposed to an automatic one decided by the OS.

[Nathan]

Just so you know Compaq tech support admitted that 95 does make changes to CMOS when it installs. Henceforth the thread

Compaq New Installs to Novell

I wish I can remember what other settings it changes. Oh well, just old age setting in. Thanks to all of you that responded.