The ReactOS project has made a notable stride by releasing version 0.4.15, marking its first point-release in several years. This milestone reflects a continuous development effort that has persisted since the last version, 0.4.14, was launched in December 2021. While some skepticism surrounds the project’s progress, the advancements in this release are commendable and warrant attention.
Significant Improvements in ReactOS 0.4.15
This latest version is a culmination of six months of dedicated work, showcasing enhancements across various functionalities. Key improvements include:
- Enhanced plug-and-play support
- Improved sound and memory management
- Better handling of Registry issues
- Strengthened security subsystem
- Refinements in the graphical desktop environment, referred to as the “shell” in Windows terminology
- Upgrades to bundled accessories
Notably, ReactOS 0.4.15 can seamlessly run Firefox 52, catering to users who prefer the PaleMoon browser. The project has been under scrutiny by The Register over the years, with previous evaluations at versions 0.4.9, 0.4.11, 0.4.13, and the most recent 0.4.14. The audacity of ReactOS lies in its ambition to reverse-engineer an operating system that achieves compatibility with Microsoft Windows NT, enabling not only the execution of Windows applications but also the installation of Windows drivers.
In a practical demonstration, the installation of VirtualBox Guest Additions was successful, allowing ReactOS to recognize and utilize a VirtualBox display adaptor. Although limitations were noted in resolution settings, the achievement of driver compatibility is remarkable. The operating system currently operates as an x86-32 platform, reporting itself to applications as Windows NT 5.2 Build 3790: Service Pack 3, which corresponds to Windows XP Pro x64 edition or Windows Server 2003.
ReactOS’s ability to install Windows drivers has drawn attention, with past reports highlighting a Microsoft kernel engineer’s astonishment at this feat, achieved without access to original source code. The ReactOS team emphasizes their commitment to clean-room reverse engineering, having previously paused development to address concerns regarding potential exposure to Microsoft’s source code.
For those who have transitioned to Linux or Mac OS X, ReactOS presents a nostalgic glimpse into the past, particularly for users who appreciated the early iterations of Windows NT. The early boot process retains a text mode reminiscent of NT 4, while the desktop design echoes the aesthetics of Windows 2000, devoid of the later themes introduced in Windows XP.
Additionally, ReactOS features an integrated app store that supports nearly 400 programs, although the built-in “WINE Internet Explorer” browser encountered functionality issues. However, the pre-installed Applications Manager can access and install 358 compatible free applications, including older versions of Firefox.
While the necessity for a 32-bit single-core Windows-compatible OS may seem limited in 2025, the mere fact that ReactOS can be installed and run is a testament to its development. For users without a Windows license or those wary of pirated software, ReactOS stands as a remarkable alternative. The project continues to attract interest, particularly among enthusiasts who favor vintage Windows versions, and its future potential remains a topic of intrigue.
