ReactOS Archives

Winsage

January 8, 2026

Doubtful Linux can ever meaningfully challenge Windows 11? This new distro may change your mind

Loss32 is a new Linux distribution concept developed by Japanese developer Hikari no Yume, designed to provide a Windows-like desktop experience on the Linux kernel. It was introduced at the 39th Chaos Communication Congress in Germany. Loss32 integrates the Windows desktop experience using WINE, allowing Windows applications to run natively on Linux. Unlike ReactOS, which aims to reimplement the Windows NT kernel, Loss32 leverages the established Linux kernel and WINE for better reliability. The initial proof-of-concept for Loss32 is expected to be released in January 2026, although the timeline for a finished product remains uncertain. The project aims to create a user-friendly experience without common Microsoft-related issues, while also allowing the use of native Linux applications. The development of Loss32 may positively impact the WINE project, enhancing its functionality for all users.

Winsage

January 1, 2026

ReactOS Starts 2026 With Another “Major Step” Toward Windows NT6 Compatibility

The ReactOS project is celebrating its 30th anniversary and has made significant progress in compatibility with Windows NT 6.0. The team has synchronized their implementation of the Microsoft C Runtime library (MSVCRT) with Wine 10.0, resulting in a 30% reduction in API test failures and improved support for various applications. Approximately 7,574 out of 25,517 test failures have been addressed, leading to a 29.6% improvement in overall stability.

Winsage

October 27, 2025

6 exciting and niche OS projects that are quietly growing as users leave Windows

More individuals are dissatisfied with Windows due to updates, telemetry, and restrictive design choices, especially with the end of life for Windows 10 approaching. This has led to a subtle migration towards niche operating systems. Zorin OS is a user-friendly Linux distribution designed for newcomers, featuring a familiar interface that mimics Windows and macOS, and is powered by Ubuntu for stability. It includes Zorin Connect for synchronizing notifications and emphasizes security and privacy. Haiku is a lightweight operating system that serves as a successor to BeOS, focusing on speed and simplicity, built entirely from scratch for a snappy user experience. SerenityOS is an independent project created from the ground up, featuring a nostalgic aesthetic and a complete desktop environment, with a focus on usability and craftsmanship. Ultramarine Linux is a Fedora-based distribution that simplifies open-source software for users, offering multimedia codecs and multiple desktop environments for a comprehensive experience. Vanilla OS introduces a modern approach to Linux with immutability, protecting core system files and allowing independent application management to enhance stability. ReactOS aims to recreate the Windows experience using open-source code, focusing on compatibility with Windows applications and drivers while fostering a community around its development.

Winsage

October 14, 2025

As Windows 10 signs off, ReactOS devs are exploring a long-awaited feature in WDDM support — investigation could pave the way for newer GPU hardware compatibility

The ReactOS development team is working on integrating the Windows Display Driver Model (WDDM) into their operating system as Windows 10 approaches its end-of-life. A significant challenge has been the lack of video driver documentation for both the older XDDM and the newer WDDM, but the emergence of open-source GPU drivers has provided valuable insights. ReactOS is an open-source project designed to run Windows software and drivers, developed entirely from scratch without relying on Linux or Unix. It is currently in an experimental phase and may not be suitable for daily use, lacking many modern features found in contemporary operating systems. ReactOS is notable for being the only open-source OS that can natively run Windows applications without compatibility layers.

Winsage

October 13, 2025

ReactOS Making Progress On Windows WDDM Driver Support

The ReactOS project is working on supporting the Windows Display Driver Model (WDDM), which is a modern graphics driver architecture introduced with Microsoft Windows Vista. This development signifies a shift from older XDDM drivers and aims to keep ReactOS relevant as new hardware emerges. Recent efforts have focused on enabling communication between ReactOS and WDDM drivers, with progress reported by developer TheDarkFire, who noted that BasicDisplay.sys was successfully loaded in ReactOS, allowing the system to utilize modern monitors at full resolutions and refresh rates. However, limitations were encountered due to hardware support rather than the implementation of Win32k.

Winsage

May 29, 2025

Forced E-Waste PCs And The Case Of Windows 11’s Trusted Platform

The process of upgrading Windows operating systems was straightforward until Windows 11, which introduced a new requirement for a Trusted Platform Module (TPM), potentially rendering many capable PCs obsolete. The TPM is used for boot validation and storing biometric data, but it complicates data recovery and may lock out legitimate users. Users have found ways to bypass Windows 11's TPM and CPU restrictions, allowing installation on unsupported hardware. Microsoft’s enforcement of these requirements remains uncertain, raising concerns about system reliability and user access to updates. Many users are opting to stay on Windows 10 while advocating for continued support from developers.

Winsage

April 5, 2025

ReactOS, an Open Source Take on Windows

ReactOS is an open-source operating system designed to be compatible with Windows, aiming to recreate the Windows experience while ensuring compatibility with existing software applications. The first stable release occurred in 2011, followed by a beta version in 2013 that improved support for 64-bit systems. By 2020, ReactOS reached a Technical Alpha milestone, indicating progress in stability and performance. The latest version resembles the outdated Windows XP interface, which may appeal to some users but lacks modern functionality. The ReactOS Application Manager allows users to install applications, but many popular software versions are outdated or incompatible. Users are advised to use the Application Manager for installations, as external downloads can lead to issues. ReactOS appeals to Windows users reluctant to switch to Linux or invest in new hardware, but it remains a work in progress with bugs and limited application support. The project invites contributions to enhance the user interface and application compatibility.

Winsage

March 26, 2025

ReactOS 0.4.15 Released With Major Improvements

Version 0.4.15 of ReactOS has been released, marking the first major update since 2020. This version includes extensive modifications to the kernel, user interface, audio systems, and driver support. Key enhancements include upgraded plug-and-play support, improved compatibility with the Microsoft FAT filesystem driver, registry healing, enhanced caching mechanisms, and kernel access checks for better operation within a Windows environment. The user interface features a refined input method editor, enhanced native ZIP archive support, and various graphical improvements. Additionally, since the branching of version 0.4.15, the master branch has seen developments such as SMP enhancements, UEFI support, a new NTFS driver, power management improvements, and enhanced application support. Regular bug fixes have also been implemented.

Winsage

March 26, 2025

ReactOS drops release 0.4.15

ReactOS has released version 0.4.15, its first point-release in several years, following version 0.4.14 from December 2021. This release includes significant improvements such as enhanced plug-and-play support, improved sound and memory management, better Registry handling, a strengthened security subsystem, refinements in the graphical desktop environment, and upgrades to bundled accessories. ReactOS 0.4.15 can run Firefox 52 and successfully installed VirtualBox Guest Additions, recognizing a VirtualBox display adaptor. The operating system operates as an x86-32 platform, identifying itself as Windows NT 5.2 Build 3790: Service Pack 3. ReactOS can install Windows drivers through clean-room reverse engineering, and it features an integrated app store supporting nearly 400 programs, although some functionality issues exist with the built-in "WINE Internet Explorer" browser. The project appeals to users nostalgic for early Windows NT versions and serves as an alternative for those without a Windows license.