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FreeDOS 1.4 Released: A Nod to Legacy Systems

While operating systems like Windows, macOS, and Linux are regularly updated, users of antiquated DOS-based PCs received a refreshing upgrade recently. The FreeDOS development team has officially unveiled version 1.4 of the operating system, marking a significant milestone since the last stable release in 2022.

Jim Hall, the founder and principal maintainer of FreeDOS, elaborates on the enhancements that come with version 1.4 in detail here. This update primarily emphasizes stability and includes a revamped installer along with updated versions of critical utilities such as fdisk, format, and the edlin text editor. Additionally, the latest version incorporates revised HTML Help files for improved user guidance.

Earlier this year, Hall provided insights regarding many of these updates, discussing FreeDOS as part of an interview published in 2024. The journey to this release began in January when the team rolled out the first release candidate for version 1.4.

In keeping with tradition, the FreeDOS installer is available in various formats that cater to different systems. For contemporary PCs, which broadly encompasses machines produced post-2000, users can access ISO and USB installers suitable for creating bootable CDs, DVDs, or USB drives. Additionally, FreeDOS is available in a separate “Floppy-Only Edition” designed for retro systems, which can conveniently fit on 720KB, 1.44MB, or 1.2MB floppy disks. This edition is tailored for classic PC hardware and includes a streamlined selection of FreeDOS programs, omitting the source code to save space.

The principal installation image encompasses all necessary files and utilities for a standard FreeDOS installation, while a separate “BonusCD” download is accessible for users seeking development tools, including the OpenGEM graphical interface and various additional utilities.

FreeDOS 1.4 not only demonstrates the longevity of older computing systems but also highlights the ongoing commitment of its community to keep this nostalgic operating system alive and functional in a modern landscape filled with new technologies.

Source
arstechnica.com