FreeDOS is an open-source, MS-DOS-compatible operating system: any program that works on MS-DOS should also run on FreeDOS. It exists to keep classic DOS games, legacy business software and DOS development toolchains usable on modern hardware and virtual machines.

Key Features

• MS-DOS compatibility — runs DOS games and applications, including Wolfenstein 3D, Doom and Commander Keen
• Complete development toolchain — open-source compilers, assemblers, debuggers and editors for writing DOS programs
• Package management — FDNPKG installs and updates software, including a 16-bit variant for vintage machines
• Modern hardware support — current releases run on 16-bit era PCs, modern x86 systems and emulators
• Actively maintained distribution — regular monthly test images between official releases (latest: FreeDOS 1.4)

Why Use It

FreeDOS is the practical way to keep DOS software alive. It boots on real hardware and in emulators and virtual machines, includes the tools needed to develop new DOS software, and is maintained by an active community. Because it is open source, the distribution and its kernel can be studied, modified and redistributed freely.

Use Cases

• Retro gaming — play classic DOS games on period-accurate or modern hardware
• Legacy business software — keep DOS-based applications running in industry and labs
• DOS development — write and build new DOS programs with open-source tools

Platform

x86, from 16-bit (8086/8088) through 32-bit. Runs on bare metal and in emulators or virtual machines such as QEMU, VirtualBox and DOSBox.

Licence

Free and open source — the FreeDOS kernel is released under the GNU General Public License v2.0; the distribution bundles other open-source and freely redistributable components.

Website

freedos.org