MS-DOS replacement after three years in a new version

The Freedos operating system is now in version 1.4. A good two years after the last release, there is again a larger update for the free dos, with which various ancient PCs, but also new computers can be operated.

Freedos as a modern alternative to MS-DOS

Freedos maker and mainainer Jim Hall has in one Blog entry Detailed information on the new Freedos 1.4 Published (via Ars Technica). The team around Hall focused on stability in the new version and delivers a number of problem objections and updates that have been in the works since the previous version 1.3 was published in 2022.

Among other things, the developers created an updated installer and included new versions of the supplied tools such as FDisk, Format and Edlin (text editor). In addition, an updated version of freecom is on board, the version of the Command.com-shell used at Freedos. The new version contains error fixes, improvements in compatibility and other translations. If you want to install Freedos, you can now work more comfortably with the new installer.

Again there is a live CD, i.e. an ISO for use on optical media, with which the basic features of the entire operating system can be easily installed on most computers. This edition is particularly recommended when it comes to operating Freedos in an emulator or a virtual machine. Further tools can be retrofitted using the additional “bonus CD” available.

For the native installation on “Right Hardware”, however, the developers recommend using an image prepared for USB sticks. Alternatively, there are also variants of Freedos that are reduced to be used in order to be used with various disks. Freedos is partially delivered to ready-made PCs in a pre-installed manner, but primarily focuses on people who want to use old PCs and games.