Discover the Latest FreeDOS 1.4: Exciting Fixes and Features for Your Modern and Vintage DOS PCs!

We often update our operating systems like Windows, macOS, and Linux, but some users with older DOS-based PCs still receive updates. This past weekend, FreeDOS released version 1.4, marking a significant update since its last stable version in 2022.

Jim Hall, the creator and maintainer of FreeDOS, shared the details about the updates. The new version focuses on stability and comes with an improved installer. This update also includes new versions of helpful tools like fdisk, format, and the edlin text editor, along with updated HTML Help files. For those interested in the full details, you can check out the official release notes here.

In our recent chat with Hall, he explained that the journey to version 1.4 began with a release candidate in January 2025. It’s fascinating to see how FreeDOS continues to evolve, especially as retro computing experiences a revival. More people are exploring older technology, which is reflected in the growing community supporting FreeDOS.

This update is accessible in various formats, making it easy for users to install it on their systems. For modern PCs, you can use ISO or USB installers to create bootable drives. For vintage systems, there’s even a "Floppy-Only Edition" that fits on classic floppy disks. However, this edition is limited to a few essential programs and does not include the source code.

Moreover, for developers or users wanting extra features, there’s a "BonusCD" download that provides additional tools, including the OpenGEM graphical interface. This shows that while FreeDOS might be a simple operating system, it caters to a diverse audience interested in both classic and modern computing.

It’s interesting to note that retro computing isn’t just a niche hobby anymore. According to a recent survey, about 15% of people age 18-34 express interest in using vintage technology. As enthusiasts continue to restore old hardware and explore retro software like FreeDOS, we might witness even more development in this space.

For anyone looking to dive into this version of FreeDOS, you can find the download here.

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