WinXX is a proprietary OS that is based on Apple "influence" research (aka "stolen" research). These are both GUI OS platforms. Graphical User Interface Operating System,
Linux, and all its derivatives is based on UNIX, which is a scientific, military, business, government OS.
Linux Mint or Ubuntu are totally FREE consumer grade Linus OS systems, complete with their own suite of apps that are compatible with WinXX.
Based on what one's computing app requirements are these dayze, there is NO way that any form of DOS will be either compatible or friendly. DOS is dead. Period.
Set up yer PC to select what device order to boot up in (1.USB 2.CD/DVD 3.Hard Drive). This means that without an OS device in a USB port or CD/DVD disc, nothing will happen other than yer PC boots up into WinXX. Put the Mint USB or disc in yer PC and boot up - it will default to the peripheral that has the Mint OS in it, and it will boot directly into Mint. You will now be temporarily functioning off the USB or disc in a Mint demo mode - NOTHING is changed or added or removed from yer PC! Check it out. Click on the Mint install link on the home page, select it to be loaded along with yer current WinXX system. When loaded, you will reboot your PC and you will be given the choice to boot into WinXX or Mint.
Most folks will read the above and say "what?? no way!!". Understandable. Go get a kid to do the above for ya. Easy peasy, promise.