For accessing internet services (HTTP, Telnet, Finger, Gopher, etc.) in DOS, DOSBox-X is the best choice due to its enhanced networking support. Here’s why:

1. Full TCP/IP Stack
   

• Unlike vanilla DOSBox (which only supports IPX for LAN gaming), DOSBox-X has built-in packet driver and TCP/IP support, allowing real internet access.
• Works with DOS TCP/IP clients like:
  • mTCP (HTTP, FTP, IRC, Telnet, etc.)
  • Arachne (Graphical DOS web browser)
  • Trumpet Winsock (for Windows 3.x)
  • KA9Q (early DOS TCP/IP stack)

2. Built-in SLIP/PPP Modem Emulation
   

• Can emulate a dial-up modem connection, useful for legacy BBS software.

3. Better Network Adapter Emulation
   

• Supports NE2000 Ethernet emulation (for DOS packet drivers).
• Can bridge to your host system’s network.

4. Windows 3.x/9x Networking
   

• If you want to run Trumpet Winsock or Internet Explorer 5 in Windows 3.1/95, DOSBox-X supports it.

Alternatives (Less Ideal)

• Vanilla DOSBox – Only supports IPX (for LAN games), no real internet.
• DOSBox Staging – Focused on gaming, no TCP/IP stack.
• DOSBox Pure – RetroArch-focused, no advanced networking.

Final Verdict

If you want to browse the web, use Telnet, FTP, Gopher, or IRC in DOS, DOSBox-X is the only fork that properly supports it. It’s the closest to having a real DOS machine online.