We’re utilized to upgrading Windows, macOS, and Linux systems a minimum of when a month (and typically more), however individuals with ancient DOS-based PCs still get to participate the enjoyable every when in a while. Over the weekend, the group that preserves FreeDOS formally launched variation 1.4 of the os, including a list of repairs and updates that have actually remained in the works considering that the last time a steady upgrade was launched in 2022.

FreeDOS developer and maintainer Jim Hall enters into more information about the FreeDOS 1.4 modifications here, and complete release notes for the modifications are here. The release has “a focus on stability” and consists of an upgraded installer, brand-new variations of typical tools like fdiskand formatand the edlin full-screen editor. The release likewise consists of upgraded HTML Help files.

Hall talked with Ars about numerous of these modifications when we interviewed him about FreeDOS in 2024. The group provided the very first release prospect for FreeDOS 1.4 back in January.

Just like older variations, the FreeDOS installer is readily available in numerous formats based upon the type of system you’re installing it on. For any “modern” PC (where “modern” covers anything that’s delivered considering that the turn of the millennium), ISO and USB installers are offered for producing bootable CDs, DVDs, or USB drives. FreeDOS is likewise offered for classic systems as an entirely different “Floppy-Only Edition” that fits on 720KB, 1.44 MB, or 1.2 MB 5.25 and 3.5-inch floppies. This edition “contains a limited set of FreeDOS programs that are more useful on classic PC hardware” and, to save area, does not consist of any FreeDOS source code.

The requirement set up image consists of all the files and energies you require for a working FreeDOS set up, and a different “BonusCD” download is likewise offered for those who desire advancement tools, the OpenGEM visual user interface, and other tools.