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Free operating system
ReactOS
A free research and development project for a Windows-compatible operating system.
What was it designed for?
ReactOS was created to freely reimplement the architecture and programming interfaces of Windows. Its goal is to run Windows drivers and applications without a proprietary Windows kernel.
Typical tasks
- Compatibility testing with older Windows applications
- Research into Windows APIs and operating-system engineering
- Driver and software tests in isolated environments
- Demonstrating a free Windows reimplementation
Strengths
- Unique free-software compatibility goal
- Interesting learning and research project
- Can run certain older Windows applications
Weaknesses
- Alpha software and unsuitable as a production primary system
- Many applications, drivers and hardware devices remain unreliable
- Security and stability are below mature operating systems
Who is it for?
- Developers, testers and operating-system researchers
- People interested in retro software and Windows compatibility
- Users of controlled experimental environments