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ReactOS 0.3.14 Released With Improved Networking Stack
An anonymous reader wrote in with news of the latest release of ReactOS, a project to create a complete reimplementation of Windows. The highlights of this release are the integration of a new network stack based upon lwIP, the ability to build using Microsoft's C compiler, and Wifi support. There are a few options for trying it out (emulator image and a livecd amongst others) and source code over at Sourceforge.
Why would you use FreeDOS over any flavor of Linux?
1. You can boot it from a floppy (or CD or USB key) in seconds, which is perfect for basic testing of older hardware.
2. Many situations do not require multitasking, ie: point of sale, etc. Many good but older point of sale programs exist that run in DOS. You can back up the entire system in seconds. I'm actually considering it for a system as we speak, since I already own the $3000 software.
3. Many situations do not require internet access (see point of sale, above).
4. Great as a standalone, or for dual booting, or virtualization for playing old games.
5. Flashing BIOS.
6. Linux isn't the answer to all computing needs. Many of them, but not all.
Tequila: It's not just for breakfast anymore!
If these talented people have enjoyed the time they spent building ReactOS, then they haven't wasted it at all.
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Um, because hardware evolves. Before too long nobody will have XP drivers for any hardware that is being manufactured. Compatible hardware will gradually cease to be available. Ever try to find a working MFM hard drive to put in that original IBM PC with MS-DOS? How about a Soundblaster card which is the only sound hardware that a lot of DOS games supported?
They said that about Mozilla for years. Sometimes the bazaar produces something that only few people find to be of any value for many many years that suddenly becomes of value to many people. Probably most projects never make it, period, but as long as someone finds it interesting to work on, more power to them.
If you don't find it of value, don't invest time or resources in it. :)
Secession is the right of all sentient beings.