FreeDOS is a free analogue of the MS-DOS disk operating system. Its development began in 1998 and is still ongoing. To bypass possible copyright issues, the developers have set the goal not to copy the code of the original DOS, but to create a new system from scratch.
FreeDOS is binary compatible with MS-DOS, which means that programs written for a proprietary system will run smoothly in an open system. Moreover, developers have ported many GNU utilities from POSIX-compatible operating systems, for example, vim and emacs editors known in Linux environments, Lynx web browser and others. There are several distributions to choose from, ranging from a full version with a full set of utilities for all occasions to a minimal one, which fits on a regular floppy disk and consists of a kernel and a command interpreter.
Despite its age, it can still be used in some areas. For example, it can be a pre-installed OS in new computers, or it can be used in embedded systems, as well as a platform for system utilities necessary for flashing chips on motherboards or graphics cards. In addition, FriDOS is perfect for launching good old games in the 80-90s, specially included in the set of tools to limit the speed of your computer.
FreeDOS enables users to run legacy software and games without any compatibility issues.
Freedos can be installed and tested in VirtualBox or VMware and installed as the primary system on your hard drive.
ADDITIONAL SCREENSHOTS
ADDITIONAL INFO
- free distribution and use of the program under the GNU GPL;
- The source code of the system is available for programmers and those who are interested in it.
- support for FAT32 and long file names;
- USB support;
- a large number of additional utilities;
- a few distributions.
PROS
Supports a wide range of DOS programs and games.
Completely free and open-source.
Low system requirements, ideal for older hardware.
CONS
Lacks graphical user interface, relies on command line.
Limited software compatibility compared to modern operating systems.
Struggles with hardware support and certain drivers.
✨ SELECTED USER REVIEW ✨
Jamie
Thu, Apr 11, 2024
FreeDOS is an operating system. It is a completely free operating system. This operating system is fully compatible with IBM PC computers and MS-DOS.
It can provide good virtualization. It is used for x86 virtualization as well. This can be booted from USB flash drive directly. Very big companies used to use this operating system earlier. Very old retro and classic games can be played on this operating system. This can handle COM executables as well.
However, people do not use this operating system nowadays anymore.
👨💻️ USER REVIEWS AND COMMENTS 💬
Robbie
DOS based operating systems have been the best bet and smoothest experience since birth. There is no reason to fix what doesn't need fixing, and a computer OS's skeleton is no exception. This software makes this accessible and easy to use.
Logan Mclaine
FreeDOS is an open source software operating system for IBM PC compatible computers. It is a complete, free replacement for the DOS operating system, providing a fully featured command line interface for running DOS applications and providing system services such as disk and file management. It includes a basic set of utilities for working with files, disks, and other resources, as well as development tools for creating DOS applications.
Jayden Cusick
I've used FreeDOS multiple times in the past and I have to say it's a great piece of software. It's very lightweight and doesn't take up too much space, so it's perfect for computers with limited resources. It has a lot of features and is quite easy to use, making it a great option for those who are looking for an alternative to Windows. The only downside is that it doesn't come with all the features offered in other operating systems. However, if you're looking for a free, lightweight operating system, then FreeDOS is definitely worth considering.
Sam R.
I have used FreeDOS software for a few years now and have found it to be a reliable and stable operating system. It is easy to set up and use and has a wide range of applications available. I have found it to be a great choice for using older hardware as well. I have found the support to be helpful and responsive. The system is very customizable and I like the options it offers.
Leo Guebara
FreeDOS is an ok software, but I had some issues with its installation process. I found it quite difficult to get it up and runinng.
Noah Daloisio
I've been using FreeDOS for some time now and find it to be a great operating system for runnig some of my older progams that no longer work on modern OS's, it's also quite user friendly and easy to navagate.
Lucas Cruzhernandez
FreeDOS is a free and open-source operating system that is compatible with MS-DOS. It provides a command-line interface and supports a wide range of applications and utilities for various purposes such as disk management, file editing, network configuration, and more. The software is lightweight and can be used on older hardware as well as modern computers. It also supports FAT32 and long filenames, making it a versatile tool for users who require a simple and reliable command-line interface. Additionally, it is highly customizable, with users able to configure the system to suit their specific needs.
Harris Ribbing
FreeDOS is a free and open-source operating system that allows users to run legacy DOS applications on modern hardware.
Leon C*******q
FreeDOS is a free and open-source operating system that is compatible with a wide range of software and hardware.
Daniel
FreeDOS is a complete, free, DOS-compatible operating system that you can use to play classic DOS games, run legacy business software, or develop embedded systems. It stands out due to its versatility, making it compatible with a wide range of hardware. Moreover, FreeDOS is open-source, allowing developers to customize it according to their needs.
Calum
Simple to use, but lacks the graphic interface common in modern operating systems.
Arran
Efficient, lightweight, perfect for legacy hardware.
1. Old school OS with 😎 retro vibes 🕹️
2. FreeDOS: No Windows, no problem 😄👍
3. Takes me back to the good ol' days 🕺💿
4. FreeDOS: It's like a time machine ⏳😮
5. DOS power without spending a 💰 on Windows 💻🆓
6. FreeDOS: Perfect for my vintage computing adventures 🚀📟
7. Powering up my old PC with FreeDOS 💪🖥️
8. Nostalgia overload with FreeDOS 😍🎮
9. FreeDOS: Unlocking the classics on my old machine 🎮🔓