Reviews of ReactOS

1. 
   wogget

   Reviewing 0.3.14 (Sep 23, 2012)

   Pretty awesome for a free OS that can run Windows programs and still be fast with 1 GB RAM in VirtualBox. Works great!
2. 
   drkstlkr

   Reviewing 0.3.13 (Nov 29, 2011)

   Many of you who wonder why ReactOS is still using an "outdated Windows XP" interface are completely missing many valuable points of ReactOS. For one, most of your novice Windows users are very comfortable with Windows XP, and HATED Vista's newer interface, let alone trying to learn a new OS, such as Linux. ReactOS is a viable option for people who are still using an older computer, possibly who's hard drive crashed, and can no longer order recovery discs from the manufacturer. Most people could afford another new hard drive for around $70, but don't want to spend $200 for the retail version of Windows Vista/7. Many users and companies still use software tailored for Windows XP that have known issues running in Vista/7. Most advanced users wouldn't run ReactOS, so stop looking at it from that narrowed perspective.
3. 
   ender ossel

   Reviewing 0.3.13 (Sep 27, 2011)

   SUPER!!!! BUT NOT IF YOU INSTALL VISUAL STUDIO 2010
   only it is a beta but it idea is MEGA SUPER ;)
   A REAL GOOT IDEA
4. 
   wuahn

   Reviewing 0.3.12 (Nov 30, 2010)

   I applaud the effort. I really really do. Unfortunately it just crashes every five minutes with no explanation. I understand that it's alpha though and as such it deserves a appropriate rating for what it is.
5. 
   mikeeberhart

   Reviewing 0.3.12 (Nov 30, 2010)

   I agree with every one else reviewing this operating system (attempt): it may have been interesting 5 years ago or more. Bluntly put, the developers behind this project are wasting an incredible amount of talent they could be directing elsewhere. There are so many wonderful open-source projects, including Linux derivations, the OpenJDK, and even things like more modern experimental OSs like Genode to work on... or heck, even Android OS.
   
   I understand, on a fundamental level, why software developers persist with projects like ReactOS; they simply can not let it die since they have so much invested in it emotionally and time-wise. But, there is a time to cut one's losses and move on. This is the last time I will ever even read the release-notes of ReactOS, as I have moved on to more interesting and modern projects like most others.
6. 
   bittermann

   Reviewing 0.3.12 (Nov 29, 2010)

   Really slow development cycle. Might have been interesting in 2003. Is there a point in developing this anymore? It wants to mimic the outdated Windows XP!
7. 
   roj

   Reviewing 0.3.12 (Nov 29, 2010)

   I've been watching this for a year now.
   
   Awesome project - ten years ago.
   
   Dead issue because of glacial progress. Ubuntu 10.10 is more viable than this dead horse as a Windows alternative.
   
   Just shut it down and let it go since it's obvious the heart and the drive just isn't there.
   
   ONE star for a great idea with NO execution.
8. 
   LakotaElf

   Reviewing 0.3.12 (Nov 29, 2010)

   A very good idea that has missed its time. The development of this OS is much too slow to even begin to keep up. A good try I might add, but much too slow.
9. 
   bobad

   Reviewing 0.3.12 (Nov 28, 2010)

   I would love to see competition for Windows 7, but is competition to Windows NT really useful? I believe ReactOS is nothing more than a hobby or educational OS. Development is far too slow to be of any real value to users. By the time it reaches stability, there will be no programs to run on it (unless you resurrect old floppy disks on a dusty shelf).
10. 
    dracodos

    Reviewing 0.3.12 (Oct 22, 2010)

    The idea of an open source windows OS is just too much to pass up. But the reality is that this projects progress is just way to slow to really serve as a true Windows Alternative. I praise the effort but hey are still stuck on Windows 2000 while we are already in the 2nd iteration of the new kernel (ie Windows 7). By the time it catches up with the 1st iteration of that Kernel, aka Vista, we'll already be at Windows 10 with something probably completely different.
    
    If they truely want to offer a great ground up open source Windows they need to be more aggressive with coding and release schedules. It shows promise bit sadly right now that is all it shows.
    
    In response to Hilbert saying Linux is a go nowhere OS may i remind that although Linux will probably never be a mainstream replacement desktop OS for Windows it thrives very well in the Server space, and on smartphones in the form of Android.
11. 
    Hilbert

    Reviewing 0.3.12 (Oct 22, 2010)

    The Forth Millennium will arrive faster than v1.0 of ReactOS.
    
    If you look at the changelog you'll see this project has been underway for at least 12 years. Obviously, it's not a real project which is very unfortunate.
    
    Theoretically, for Windows users wishing for an alternative to M$, an 'open' version of 'Windows' running genuine Win32/64 APIs would be a much better proposition than having to switch to any version of that other going-nowhere operating system, Linux, as existing code would be running naively, and for Windows users, years' worth of programs would be preserved not to mention continuing to working in a familiar environment. But don't hold your breath.
    
    Given the huge desire of millions to rid themselves of having to rely on M$, you'd think thousands of programmers would be queuing up to join this project and that after a decade-plus we'd have real product, but alas ReactOS is still little more than a joke.
    
    Anyone really know why this project has been so moribund for so long--is it perhaps a pet project of a few who won't let others in or something similar? (I've watched it going nowhere for years and I'm curious as to why it's even still around.)
    
    In the meantime we've:
    
    - going-nowhere ReactOS super-early alpha
    - going-nowhere Linux, or,
    - going-somewhere Windows (even if we don't like where it's going).
    
    Right, it's a no-brainer (even if we don't like the choices).
12. 
    mrpowerup

    Reviewing 0.3.12 (Oct 21, 2010)

    ReactOS maybe the future of windows ?
    considering the way windows is coded
13. 
    dotnetnightmare

    Reviewing 0.3.12 (Oct 21, 2010)

    Please bear in mind that ReactOS 0.3.12 is still in alpha stage, meaning it is not feature-complete and is not recommended for everyday use. Why is this incomplete software being listed?
14. 
    Artem S. Tashkinov

    Reviewing 0.3.12 (Oct 21, 2010)

    I believe people developing ReactOS are sick.
    
    This thing most likely will never reach stability or usability so I still wonder what justifies this project.
15. 
    Mr Swiffer

    Reviewing 0.3.12 (Oct 21, 2010)

    Microsoft greatly appreciates the existence of this product. Once people realize how buggy this fake Windows is they will start buying Windows 7 in droves.
16. 
    thartist

    Reviewing 0.3.12 (Oct 21, 2010)

    By the time this gets relevant, i may have a Windows 11/Linux Mint 28 dual-boot implanted in my brain.
17. 
    Hilbert

    Reviewing 0.3.11 (Dec 19, 2009)

    It would be wonderful if React OS would really take hold. I looked at it a year ago and had problems this time I've not had enough time to make up my mind but it's rough.
    
    I can't understand why this product isn't rushed by every open source developer everywhere. The thought of M$ independent Win 32 API stuff is the stuff of dreams as Windows compatibility at the binary level ultimately solves the Linux incompatibility.
    
    Linux is ultimately useless to Windows users. If I buy a Chinese dictionary when I only speak English the Chinese dictionary is useless to me. On the other hand, if I have an Oxford Dictionary and I lose it and I buy a Webster instead then all's well.
    
    If ultimately sufficient people supported it, it might be ok. even if it got to the stage where it can be run on one's second PC instead of Windows it would be great. M$ Windows will never have any real competition until has an open freeware API compatible os that replaces Windows in droves. Linux will never do this because it's not API compatible. Never has never will.
18. 
    jotte_ct

    Reviewing 0.3.11 (Dec 17, 2009)

    I played tetris on this OS like one year ago, previous release I think...
    Looking forward next years for a release that will allow me to play minesweeper.
    Thank you!
19. 
    sst

    Reviewing 0.3.11 (Dec 17, 2009)

    Keep up the work! We will need a compatible system with usable source code.
    Microsoft's reputation of modifying their APIs, and their reputation of internal and external coding standards is courtroom documented.
20. 
    bobad

    Reviewing 0.3.10 (Jul 6, 2009)

    Interesting, but irrelevant. Development is simply too slow, and people will lose interest as new Windows and Linux refreshes are released.
    
    Too bad,,, the world needs a platform on which Windows apps will run natively.
21. 
    Aegis69

    Reviewing 0.3.10 (Jul 6, 2009)

    I like this idea, but I'm not sure if the niche they are trying to fill is large enough. As some others have stated, ubuntu + wine does a lot of what this does, and since gnome is customizable so you can make it look exactly like windows if you want, I believe most people will go that route before using React.
    
    A for effort tho.
22. 
    johnuw225

    Reviewing 0.3.10 (Jul 6, 2009)

    NT design is very strong and the fundementals haven't changed since its early days. Unless Microsoft drops the NT architecture, then ReactOS will always be relevant.
    
    "by the time they are usable, the world will be by Windows 11..."
    
    Ha... who needs Win11 ! For example the audit company where I work, still runs on NT4 machines, and there are even no considerations about upgrading to something newer.
23. 
    bittermann

    Reviewing 0.3.10 (Jul 6, 2009)

    Development is too slow to be worth considering. A good idea at a monolithic development pace. Linux + Wine is done in almost all versions of Linux and BSD so I don't see what the point of this OS is? You want free updated OS get Ubuntu...
24. 
    thartist

    Reviewing 0.3.9 (Apr 27, 2009)

    by the time they are usable, the world will be by Windows 11...
    
    you can't expect to survive by framing yourself in a bubble... Sorry but no good cause makes this worth anything (or it's just too little to mean anything), and it's not like saying "true" for "true NT" makes it any more honorable anyhow.
    Do u have a pentium I and it works? Ok, throw it away the same you hippie! What value are u trying to save?
25. 
    mynamehere

    Reviewing 0.3.8 (Feb 6, 2009)

    @madmike
    I think it's obvious that the point is to make not just a free alternative OS, but a free true NT based windows alternative (written from scratch) that runs windows apps and uses windows drivers.
    
    I'd love to see it go gold, Imagine all the possibilities, i.e. instead of offering linux as a windows alternative to cut prices, they could offer a true windows replacement instead, it would have been great if it had been up to speed for the OLPC project.
    
    A lite free "windows" OS would be good for throwing together old "junker" pc's for file servers, grandparents or tiny tots that don't need much to run educational games, etc. (could save preschools money better spent elsewhere), after all, most of us have hardware sitting around, it's the OS that'd cost us to do such good deeds.
    
    Progress may be slow, but at least they haven't given up like a lot of others have, and very few others were trying to be "windows replacements".
    
    You never know, if they get this OS up to snuff it might effect MS OS pricing.
    
    The site says that at v0.5 they'll consider it beta & suitable for every day use (not sure what that means as far as hardware/software compatabiity though). Gotta give it at least a 4 for their continued effort towards a real windows alternative, and not just making another *NIX OS.
26. 
    us3r

    Reviewing 0.3.8 (Feb 6, 2009)

    Very buggy, most things don't work at all or they cause freeze, crash, BSOD. But since it is noble idea to make a completely free NT based operating system which would be an alternative for Microsoft products I gave it a 4. Also I hope that the development of this project will speed up.
27. 
    madmike

    Reviewing 0.3.8 (Feb 6, 2009)

    Well done to the dev team, but personally I cant see the point at all.. Win XP is on most peeps pcs, then there is Vista and soon Win 7.. Whats the point of this program?
28. 
    mackintire

    Reviewing 0.3.7 (Nov 25, 2008)

    Its getting better. I do see a day when ReactOS will be usable. Unfortunately it needs to speed up the development process before it becomes outclassed.
    
    It needs to get to 1.0 before 2013 when XP support is 1 year from being dropped.
    
    If they can get this OS up and running with security and enough compatibility, it should survive and possibly thrive.
29. 
    PagingDrLeoMarvin

    Reviewing 0.3.7 (Nov 11, 2008)

    Nice, enjoying watching how this project progresses.
30. 
    bobad

    Reviewing 0.3.7 (Nov 6, 2008)

    Great effort, although it's going slowly.
    
    I think there's a huge market for ReactOS. People are frustrated and fed up with Vista, and yearn for a simple, reliable OS like XP. After many years, Linux is not there yet application-wise, and may never be. With ReactOS, you can use the countless excellent Windows compatible software, AND divorce yourself from Microsoft.
    
    If the authors could hurry and get it functional and stable, with a user-friendly install, I think it would take off like a rocket.
31. 
    Redrik

    Reviewing 0.3.7 (Nov 6, 2008)

    It may have a way to go but the objective is superior to Linux. As good as Linux is it's a scary prospect for most, especially the corporate computer guys who have a vested interest in sticking with MS. ReactOS has the potential to get those people moving whereas Linux will never do it. Perceived as too hard and the Linux diehards are often nerdy elitists, not computer illiterates.
32. 
    pforbes

    Reviewing 0.3.6 (Aug 8, 2008)

    Excellent work given it is the first step to approach Linux to Windows users by using an autonomous OS. As we all come from Microsoft culture, IMO this is the right direction.
    Good luck!
33. 
    mflip

    Reviewing 0.3.6 (Aug 8, 2008)

    @DJGM
    
    Windows XP and Vista both use NTFS 3.1. You're referring to the bootloader code in the boot sector of the Windows partition. Windows XP (aka Windows 5.x) uses NTLDR while Vista (aka Windows 6) uses BOOTMGR.
    
    In any case, with projects like Wine around ReactOS is a complete waste of time. Nobody wants a cheap lookalike of Microsoft Windows. The people who use Linux are generally people who don't like Microsoft Windows for one reason or another.
34. 
    DJGM

    Reviewing 0.3.6 (Aug 7, 2008)

    @ oomingmak . . .
    NTFS v5.2 is used in Windows Server 2003 and 64bit XP
    NTFS v6.0 is used in Windows Server 2008 and Vista.
    
    =====
    
    The ReactOS project may be taking a long time to reach
    its ultimate goal of building a totally open source clone
    of Windows, written entirely from the ground up, but
    that's to be expected, given what's involved.
    
    I believe it'll eventually be good enough for everyday use.
    It may never topple Windows itself as the most widely
    used OS, but it has the potential to be as stable and
    useable as Windows XP is now by the time MS has
    finally killed off all support for its venerable OS.
35. 
    madmike

    Reviewing 0.3.6 (Aug 7, 2008)

    Credit to the people for working hard on this, but I cant see the point of it?? might be labour in vain.
36. 
    the artist

    Reviewing 0.3.5 (Jul 1, 2008)

    ...aaaaaand it will be in crawling speed development till 2050 when pc's won't exist anymore... Fantastic!
    
    yeh, go linux!
37. 
    oomingmak

    Reviewing 0.3.5 (Jul 1, 2008)

    @ glassdesigns, I agree with you about the absolute necessity for NTFS support, but ReactOS is still in very early stages of development.
    
    NTFS support is scheduled for ReactOS v 0.7
    http://www.reactos.org/en/about_roadmap.html
    
    Hopefully they'll implement NTFS v5.2 (aka v6.0) so that you can use *proper* symbolic links (rather than those dodgy junction points) and also take advantage of atomic file system transactions.
38. 
    glassdesigns

    Reviewing 0.3.5 (Jul 1, 2008)

    Why only fat16 and fat32 file system recognition.
    
    This OS is a great idea but you have to be able to use ntfs.
39. 
    tylerhw

    Reviewing 0.3.4 (Apr 3, 2008)

    Looks great, haven't tried it out yet. Nice that Diablo 2 works on it. I'm a little wary of the small download, but still optimistic it will work great. As for IE and DotNet, we have FireFox which is handsdown better than IE and Mono is DotNet for Open Source OS's. ;)
40. 
    SineWave

    Reviewing 0.3.3 (Sep 14, 2007)

    Well, I don't think you have to use *IE* only, or dotnet apps. I know I don't and I have no need for any of them. I don't get the point. It is highly subjective what one needs and for me ReactOS is doing more than just fine.
    
    Keep up the good work guys! I want to be able to use it as a DAW, but Im not sure it supports ASIO at this stage. Thanks!
41. 
    bobad

    Reviewing 0.3.3 (Sep 14, 2007)

    It's a great idea, but it will never fly without IE and DotNet compatibility. When you peruse the ReactOS site, all you see is Firefox this, Mozilla that, which most Windows users will reject as being foreign. Only if the Dev's can come up with ingenious ways to use IE browser overlays (such as Maxthon and Avant) and use DotNet apps (such as QuickBooks) can it succeed. Too many modern Windows apps rely on the above. I think they will succeed with hardware compatibility, but that's only a small battle won. I sincerely wish the ReactOS crew the best of luck!
42. 
    ModderXManiac

    Reviewing 0.3.3 (Sep 13, 2007)

    korgul, they have a portable version; look on the download page.
    
    Sweet feathery Jesus..they have Halo working on it(to an extent), and full working Quake 2 and UT!
    
    ReactX is well under development, so game compatibility is growing drastically per release...This release is muuuuuch more stable than the 3.3 RC, and lots of new features over 3.1, not to mention the very long changelog for this release; it's pages long.
    
    Within the next year, they could be at Win2k compatibility.
43. 
    korgul

    Reviewing 0.3.3 (Sep 13, 2007)

    Verry good alternative, but i dont installed it directly, on a main os on a harddrive.
    
    I have used some older ReactOS releases, in VMWare.
    
    Did it will be a Portable ReactOS version ? = I hope, ...
    
    Then try it, ...
44. 
    Tao2005

    Reviewing 0.3.3 RC2 (Sep 8, 2007)

    Looks like windows. blah...................
45. 
    fss69

    Reviewing 0.3.3 RC2 (Sep 5, 2007)

    Interesting project! Nice to see some solid progress going.
46. 
    computershack

    Reviewing 0.3.3 RC2 (Sep 4, 2007)

    It's coming along great.
    
    It's main advantage is that it can use Windows drivers and as ndiswrapper has proven in Linux, that solves a huge problem with hardware support.
47. 
    hell0

    Reviewing 0.3.3 RC2 (Sep 4, 2007)

    Veeeery interesting.
    
    Been watching it for a few years and it really is starting to hot up. I look forward to the releases in future :)
48. 
    E.T

    Reviewing 0.3.3-RC (Jul 25, 2007)

    Basicly I like windows operating system that come with light weight, high security, low resource memory, easy registry backup like win98se, easy to use, doesn't install many driver to my system when not needed, when I connect to internet my Identity, IP address, CPU info and my system are invisible, highly secure, encrypted and anti scanner. Also when I connect to internet, only one folder is allow (the function is like Sandboxie) thus make my system more secure. That is what I need and that is my future OS.
    
    BTW: "ReactOS" Should change the name to "Future XP"!
    
    Excellent! 5 rating from me.
49. 
    cricri_pingouin

    Reviewing 0.3.3-RC (Jul 24, 2007)

    This is progressing well. A 5 from me to encourage its authors.
50. 
    SineWave

    Reviewing 0.3.3-RC (Jul 23, 2007)

    I'd give it 5 just for the noble effort. I've been watching it's development throughout the years, and it's becoming very close to what those that cannot part from some Windows only apps need.
    
    I'm sure, it will be more efficient and easier to work with ReactOS than "real" Windows.
    
    Great work guys!
51. 
    Patnet

    Reviewing 0.3.1 (Mar 12, 2007)

    Just had a quick look using the *.vmx. That was enough to want to download the Alpha. While it's not quite 'smokin' it's beginning to smoulder and shows a lot of promise.
52. 
    dawinsor87

    Reviewing 0.3.0 (Feb 28, 2007)

    I am a technology specialist at the college where I work, and have had an active interest in computers for several years. Though I am new to React, I am very excited about it. Once mass population groups begin to accept this as a viable alternative to windows (a free one), there will be no stopping them. I think this will be a great springboard for pushing out GNU style software in to the public's mind.
    
    What makes me more excited is that its current version is only 0.3, and it's already a very nice OS. By the time beta testing, and production actually come around, this is going to be a solid piece of work that can free people from the chains of microsoft.
    
    Only a 4 because if it were 5, then it couldn't get any better, which of course, it can.
53. 
    maddevon2222

    Reviewing 0.3.0 (Dec 12, 2006)

    It's ok. I downloaded it with the Qemu emulator. It's small, easy to use, and that's about all I can say at the moment. It's better than WindowsXP I'm sure. And I'm also sure that it can be compatible with WindowsXP software even with out the source code of XP. You don't need the source for everything. If they couldn't make it compatible with XP software, they wouldn't say that it will. Now I just can't wait for it to be in beta. I'm ready to make it my OS. I'm tired of MS's crappy windows xp.
54. 
    extremely well

    Reviewing 0.3.0 (Aug 28, 2006)

    Yeah I'm giving it 5-stars because we really need an open source Win2000-compatible OS, in the least to keep MS future prices "reasonable". I already addressed the point that I DO NOT think copy-paste was/will be performed, but only a fool will think that the dev team does not "take a peek" when they hit a brick-wall implementing some obscure protocol/API... I don't give a sh*t when the project started. MS was founded in 1975, yet I see a lot of concepts "casually lifted" from 2005 OS's and getting integrated into Vista. So what MS couldn't do in 1975 they can do in 2006. Where does that put your stance? At best as a hopeless naive. And yeah, I knew about the audit. It's a Good Thing(TM) for legal purposes. Hopefully it also served the purpose that those who contribute code will know to better explain their "phenomenal knowledge" of inner-workings in the future... Perhaps introduce bugs themselves then "fixing" them.
55. 
    crashoverride

    Reviewing 0.3.0 (Aug 28, 2006)

    I'm sure it's nice but it doesn't work. I'm sure it should work because I have installed one of the previous releases and it worked fine but this one won't even start up after installation.
56. 
    Skyfrog

    Reviewing 0.3.0 (Aug 28, 2006)

    This is an open source project, if they were copying Windows 2000 source code don't you think Microsoft just *might* notice? Also did you miss the fact that they had to do a complete code audit to make sure no Windows code was being used? Guess you did...
57. 
    The MAZZTer

    Reviewing 0.3.0 (Aug 28, 2006)

    "extremely well": It's also well known that ReactOS was started in 1998. The source code leak you mentioned occurred in 2004. The accusation you made was already made by others, and has been addressed by the project. Please look up your facts before spouting nonsense.
    
    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ReactOS
    http://www.neowin.net/in...p?act=view&id=17509
    
    I like how after your rant you went and rated it a 5.
    
    ReactOS runs well in a Virtual Machine, I'm enjoying watching the progress they're making.
58. 
    extremely well

    Reviewing 0.3.0 RC3 (Aug 22, 2006)

    You're not fooling me, guys.... This program's "progress" is a facade. It's well known Windows 2000 source code has been circulating in the underground since the famous MS breakin a few years ago. So the progress is a fake progress, just to make the project appear legitimate in the eyes of the users and MORE IMPORTANTLY IN THE EYES OF THE LAW. So I don't expect any copy-paste to be done from the original MS code (because MS will catch that right away), but I definitely expect 99.9% compatibility with win2000 within a few short years "somehow". And "surprisingly", it will not be further compatible with WinXP-only drivers and software (XP source never leaked).
59. 
    Corbit

    Reviewing 0.3.0 RC3 (Aug 21, 2006)

    The progress this project is making is incredible. I admit I was a bit of a Doubting Thomas when I first took a look. I thought, "Someone points to Windows and decides to reconstitute a functional alternative to it. Right." Well, I am happy to see that that's a bet I'm in the process of losing. Keep chipping away! A quick note to some of the earlier reviewers - This is a work in progress. And it cost you nothing. While I wish it cured cancer, I'm not going to denigrate it for failing to do so.
60. 
    Don Juan

    Reviewing 0.3.0 RC3 (Aug 21, 2006)

    Was gonna rate it a four or three because RC3 seems less functional that RC1, at least inside a virtual machine. On the other hand all these people that don't understand this is years from final release come on here and give it a one or two, so I'll give it a five to compensate.
    
    This project isn't using anything that could get them sued by M$, it's 100% legal and open source.
61. 
    tickleonthetum

    Reviewing 0.3.0 RC3 (Aug 21, 2006)

    I think this is an excellant ambition and is progressing steadily. It can run a number of programs without problems as can be seen in their site's Screenshot section.
62. 
    aredo

    Reviewing 0.3.0 RC2 (Aug 15, 2006)

    It's just a joke. If you want to waste your time or have plenty of time to waste, then try it. Otherwise, forget about a working Windows-clone, that just won't happen.
    Being able to run some simple applications doesn't make it Windows-compatible at all. And if it would ever be able to run 60%+ of Windows software then Microsoft would sue all of them and the project would disappear.
63. 
    lane32x

    Reviewing 0.3.0 RC2 (Aug 15, 2006)

    My word. Seriously people: this was already debted quite a while back . Google search "ReactOS Reverse Engineering" and shut up
    (or go here
    < http://www.reactos.org/en/news_page_14.html >)
    Meanwhile I've been wondering about this os for a long time but never grabbed parts for another 'box' as to try it. Anyone have an on topic review (since I don't).
    by the way, I give it a 5 because they are sticking to their original goal of trying to create an OS that runs windows binaries, unlike SkyOS, Lindows, and several OSes before them.
64. 
    noBuddy

    Reviewing 0.3.0 RC2 (Aug 15, 2006)

    I really can´t get you guys.
    Is this from people testing software, or from kids with personality problems?
    Who really cares about your philosophy? Don´t you have a puppy to talk to?
    Can ANYONE talk about programs? What´s your test result? Does it what it promises? Which programs run. which not. Is it worth downloading? Don´t know: Photoshop runs? What about programs encoding videos? Any problems? So what, All you Politicians
65. 
    QQ

    Reviewing 0.3.0 RC2 (Aug 14, 2006)

    Victor,
    
    sorry, i insist on keeping the right to calls someone outright stupid if he/she insists that 2+2 in decimal system isnt 4 without providing valuable arguments.
    
    besides - reverse engineering is just gathering knowledge. prove it's illegal.
66. 
    hondaman

    Reviewing 0.3.0 RC2 (Aug 14, 2006)

    A noble effort, and it would be awesome to one day use a non-ms os to run ms software.
    
    However, this is far from complete, and barely useable as-is.
67. 
    VictorAnderson

    Reviewing 0.3.0 RC2 (Aug 14, 2006)

    QQ - There are thus legitimate and illegitimate reasons for wanting to reverse engineer software products, chips, printed circuit boards and other hardware products, and firmware (i.e. mask-programmed or similar embedded software products).
    
    A genuine competitor will try to reduce their use of the intermediate description generated by reverse engineering to the absolute minimum necessary, to avoid copying, whereas a pirate will attempt to use the reverse engineered code to the maximum extent possible and add the minimum of independently created material, to make the product a "lookalike" in so far as possible, and to reduce the amount of effort they use.
    
    I don't think what these guys are doing is actually reverse enginering in the eyes of the law (at least here in the USA) -- the DMCA law isn't all that clear in a lot of these cases.
    
    If you want to do some research, I stronly suggest taking a look here...
    http://lwn.net/Articles/134654/
    
    I think if you take the time to read some of the laws, you'll find that in many cases, reverse engineering is, indeed, illegal. In all fairness though I'll conceed that this isn't always the case.
    
    -------------------------------------------------
    seier -> Reverse engineering someone elses work is illegal. Trying to create something new that's compatable is - for the most part anyway - not illegal.
    
    QQ - are we 12 years old or something? Calling someone stupid out here is pointless and acomplishes nothing.
    
    aredo - Don't be so sure of all that. Have you seen http://www.mono-project.com/Main_Page ??? I think you're underestimating the create ability of software developers and engineers these days. Might not ever be 100%, but eventually might be so close it won't matter. And hey the government hates Microsoft and the old anti-trust thing they got nailed with - so who knows?
68. 
    seier

    Reviewing 0.3.0 RC2 (Aug 14, 2006)

    Hi aredo,
    
    First off, any clone will never have 100% compatibility. However, this project will most likely have a 90- 95% compatibility rating one day. However, the fact that you think they need the source code is rather silly. They can just reverse engineer windows just like the Wine folks do. Oh and I'm giving it a 5, because this is the single most exciting open source project out there.
    
    Cheers,
    Christian
69. 
    QQ

    Reviewing 0.3.0 RC1 (Jun 20, 2006)

    so you should rate WINE 1 aswell then? rating something with lowest rank just because it has long way to go it's ignorant, and outright stupid. which you are.
70. 
    aredo

    Reviewing 0.3.0 RC1 (Jun 20, 2006)

    It's just hype and nothing more than that. There is no way this OS will ever be fully compatible with Microsoft OSes. Only basic programs will remain compatible with it. Expecting full .NET 1.1/2.0, DirectX 9/10 and other APIs support and compatibility it's just naive.
    It won't happen. They should have full access to Windows source code and documents to achieve such a goal and Microsoft would never allow that, they would easily sue if the OS ever gets too perfect--and it won't happen.
71. 
    guti

    Reviewing 0.3.0 RC1 (Jun 19, 2006)

    A great advance comparing it with the previous 0.2.9.
    
    Unfortunatelly (I do not know if it is caused by the code auditing), the development is getting beyong new technologies.
    
    Appearance is at the level of Win2k, not x64 port, ...
    
    Anyway, good project.
72. 
    Diam0nd

    Reviewing 0.3.0 RC1 (Jun 19, 2006)

    God bless you!
73. 
    bellgamin

    Reviewing 0.3.0 RC1 (Jun 19, 2006)

    For its present stage of development, React EARNS a resounding 5!!!
    
    I salute those who labor on this very worthwhile effort. May your efforts bear fruit, and may your dedication bring showers of blessings upon you.
    
    /s/ A devout member of A.B.W.***
    
    ***(Anything But Windoze)
74. 
    summoner

    Reviewing 0.2.9 (Feb 3, 2006)

    Very impressed by this. While it is still in early stages and not yet useable for anything productive it shows great promise.
    
    Is it just me or does the partitioning utility have a bug? It ignored the partition sizes I specified and just set values of it's own.
    
    I am running Windows 2000 Pro on my two network servers (nat/storage/ftp/www/printers) and would love to replace them with this.
    
    Keep up the good work!
75. 
    bobad

    Reviewing 0.2.9 (Dec 24, 2005)

    I have to seriously disagree with Spiked. As a complete program, I rate ReactOS as a weak 1 out of 5. As an ALPHA RELEASE, it gets a solid 5! Sure it has a long way to go, but we have to be realistic. All the people that whine and complain about Windows should spend a few days helping to code an OS such as ReactOS or a Linux package. It will give you a new perspective on things. Good luck to the ReactOS team, and anyone that can help should volunteer to do so!
76. 
    guti

    Reviewing 0.2.9 (Dec 24, 2005)

    Looks very promissing. Performance is good.
    
    Compatibility needs to be improved a bit.
77. 
    spiked

    Reviewing 0.2.9 (Dec 23, 2005)

    If this were a school project, I'd give it an A+ because there is an impressive amount of functionality and compatibility implemented, considering that it's the work of a few people in their spare time. However, it's completely unrealistic to think this will EVER (even in 20 years) become comparable to Windows 2000 much less XP or Vista, unless a large commercial entity gets behind it. For the reviewers wondering about security, there is absolutely nothing implemented for security so far, except some placeholder dialogs and menus which don't do anything. Only FAT is supported so there are no file system permissions. Sharing is not implemented so there are no share permissions. Regedit has a permissions dialog but the registry does not implement ACLs yet, so the dialog doesn't do anything and every single key is fully open. It wouldn't matter if they add ACLs because there is no logon functionality and the user profile support is extremely skeletal (basically just placeholder directories, non-working property pages, etc.). Not only is there no Security Event Log, there's not any real event logging yet, just debug stuff in the code.
    
    As with many open source projects, people tend to work on things they personally feel to be cool or fun. Therefore, ReactOS has frills like virtual desktops, even though basic functionality is far from finished for one desktop. There are way too many placeholders and things which barely work well enough for a 5-second demo but hardly at all for real use.
    
    I truly believe ReactOS is a worthwhile exercise but frankly, it's not much more than an exercise. I'm sure I'll get flamed by people who act like I've just discredited Santa Claus, but it's simply not unrealistic to pretend that ReactOS will go anywhere unless it gets a major boost from somebody as big as Sun, IBM, Oracle, etc. Given the momentum of Linux and continued progress on WINE, it's very unlikely that ReactOS would ever show up on the radar screens of those folks.
78. 
    Kramy

    Reviewing 0.2.9 (Dec 23, 2005)

    I would have to disagree with the below person. While the aim is very good, if you don't build a very solid platform from the ground up, you'll suffer from the same problems as Windows does.
    
    A good example of an OS timeframe is Windows Vista. It looks like it's taking around 5 years to complete. Well, perhaps in a couple more years this will be nearing 0.80, and you'll be able to easily install it and play all your favourite games?
    
    On a side note - I hope this follows Win2k's path moreso than XP's path. XP had a severe drop in gaming performance from what appears to be how it handles multiple tasks. Also, while XP boots quite quickly, you then can't do anything in windows practically forever. Many people also have problems with its Hibernation. I've got a modified Win2k with hacked XP DLL's, and can hibernate dozens of times no problem, taking only a few second to do so or to resume.
    
    Ofcourse, they don't use any code from MS...but yes, I'd like to see this less "inefficient multi-tasking", and more pure-speed.
79. 
    UTAKER

    Reviewing 0.2.9 (Dec 23, 2005)

    The aim is pretty good
    The progress is far too slow to keep pace with Windows or in any useable form
80. 
    chen_tso

    Reviewing 0.2.8 (Nov 9, 2005)

    regarding the last comment. this operating system isn't based on linux. it's a complete rewrite. not built on a linux code.
81. 
    spiffyjeff

    Reviewing 0.2.8 (Nov 2, 2005)

    Interesting,
    I wonder how security will come to play in this. Assuming its background is Linux, will it be vulnerable to Linux and Windows attacks?
    
    Anyway, cool idea and it looks like it is growing quick. I'll give it a shot some day soon.
82. 
    BobTheVeg

    Reviewing 0.2.8 (Nov 1, 2005)

    Interresting project. Great job.
83. 
    fogWraith

    Reviewing 0.2.8 (Nov 1, 2005)

    I still remember the early days when it first was announced, released and displayed ... tried it on my VMWare and it ran... didn't look much at it until now.
    
    It has come quite far, and I must admit ... the future is looking bright ;)
    
    I'm having this installed on me old, old NT4 server, see how it performs there.
84. 
    guti

    Reviewing 0.2.8 (Nov 1, 2005)

    Nice Windows alternative for home users. In 1 or 2 years, probably it will be able to replace successfully Windows OS. Linux is actually a no-way.
    Advancing great in compatibility and performance.
85. 
    AntiochMedia

    Reviewing 0.2.8 (Nov 1, 2005)

    Downloading ... getting ready to install the nightly... from everything I've read on the site and the compatibility reports, I think the picture here on BetaNews.com is a bit silly as it shows a very basic application running whereas ReactOS can run Unreal Tournament.
86. 
    GeorgeSantayana

    Reviewing 0.2.8 (Oct 31, 2005)

    Anyone know if there's a VMWare player for this?
87. 
    ModderXManiac

    Reviewing 0.2.8 (Oct 31, 2005)

    Considering they work so closely with the Wine project, they will soon crack the code to run all windows programs without fuss.
    
    This shows so much potential, very fast, very stable, VERY LEGIT!
88. 
    cemcd

    Reviewing 0.2.7 (Aug 23, 2005)

    I believe reactos will be an excelent os when complete. I very much like the whole layout and the idea :-)
    
    Fantastic Job!
89. 
    spiffyjeff

    Reviewing 0.2.7 (Aug 22, 2005)

    I've tried an older version with some difficulties, but I do like the idea and I'm sure the programmers enjoy the challenge. I think this will probably take quite some time to get somewhere. It is looking good, I think it will be pretty successfull when it supports more things.
    
    It's just what we need, a Open Source OS that will run things, such as games meant for windows.
90. 
    ModderXManiac

    Reviewing 0.2.7 (Aug 22, 2005)

    There will be no lawsuits, since there isnt one single code similarity to MS windows.
    
    I love what these guys are doing, excellent programmers.
    
    Just give it sufficient networking and It'd be a hit.
91. 
    Banquo

    Reviewing 0.2.7 (Aug 22, 2005)

    The programmers of ReactOS aren't stupid. There is no Windows code in this and no basis for a lawsuit.
92. 
    ukexpat

    Reviewing 0.2.7 (Aug 22, 2005)

    Just standby and wait for the lawsuits.
93. 
    Draje

    Reviewing 0.2.6 (Aug 2, 2005)

    EXCELLENT! This is a very nice OS. Though somehow I predict a lawsuit in the future from Mirosoft for some reason or another.
94. 
    Kartun_355

    Reviewing 0.2.6 (Apr 13, 2005)

    this is a very great idea to make FREE windows compatible OS, that will include power of Linux and native windows applications and device drivers. Hardware support is the most important thing in modern OS's, so this project has a great potential ... Keep it going =)
95. 
    Gunman67

    Reviewing 0.2.6 (Apr 11, 2005)

    A great start. Once they get the networking up I think popularity will boom. I build computers for friends and this would be great due to high prices of Microsoft products. Makes a $500 computer $500 instead of $1000 after buying Office and Windows. Opensource is starting to really catch on and helps compete against the $300 computers they sell over at Walmart. easier to convince someone to pay an extra hundred than six hundred for for quality. Anyhow keep up the great work. I will be checking in on this one regularly.
    Brian
96. 
    kamirao

    Reviewing 0.2.6 (Apr 11, 2005)

    Ofcourse I hate windows. But the reason not to switch to other OS is that there are great programs only compatible for Windows or Mac like macromedia and adobe products. This is a great idea. So why not rate it 5!
97. 

    Reviewing 0.2.6 (Apr 10, 2005)

    awesome idea and initiative!
    keep it up! :)
98. 
    LRN

    Reviewing 0.2.6 (Apr 10, 2005)

    yep. We all waiting...Let's give it all 5 stars...In future, we'll have enougth time and reasons to give it 2,3,4 - for bugs and errors. But today we must inspire developers to keep up the work :) Go-go-go!!!
99. 
    anede2002

    Reviewing 0.2.6 (Apr 10, 2005)

    Masterpiece!!!
    
    I love it, i know, i know, it is baby, but it have bright future. I hope other developers from around the world come and develop this prospective OS. it would take a long time, but i think it would worth waiting.
100. 
     Nikkie

     Reviewing 0.2.5 (Mar 25, 2005)

     Hey , Keep up the great work . I am sure this will make a great operating system . Just keep pushing forward .. Good things take time .
     
     You have my support ..
101. 
     likwidv

     Reviewing 0.2.3 (Jun 30, 2004)

     Definitly congradulate thier efforts, but how long do you think it will take them to complete this project into a form people would use mainly. will the next version of windows be out before that?
102. 
     patmc7

     Reviewing 0.2.3 (Jun 29, 2004)

     I had trouble getting it to install. The install program refused to go beyond the menu, and when I did get it to start up (by rebooting using the binaries and an install CD in the drive) it froze after not recognizing my keyboard or mouse.
     I tried it on a PII with win98.
103. 
     Richardky

     Reviewing 0.2.3 (Jun 29, 2004)

     This is still a baby ..remember windows dos 3.1 ..95 ect ect...The big difference is this is (free) dont exspect a $200 operating system for now exspect a $0 dollar one that is in its first stage of life and then give a honest review about it.
104. 
     Llama_tamer

     Reviewing 0.2.3 (Jun 29, 2004)

     It's young. Don't expect a polished OS brimming with apps after you install the 5.4 MB ISO.
     I have not installed this on real hardware yet so I can't really judge the performance. I've installed it on a very beefy VMWare server and just couldn't get it to react right. Sorry for the pun.
     I may increase my review if I get it to function correctly, but I think I will have to wait for a few more revs.
     Maybe I should just pitch in and help?
105. 
     distinguished

     Reviewing 0.2.2 (Jun 26, 2004)

     Great! support for the applications, not repressive microsoft.
106. 
     g400

     Reviewing 0.2.2 (Jun 24, 2004)

     it has very high potential and it has come a long way since earlier versions (btw:0.23 just went RC2, 0.22 is from april).I always liked the NT-Kernel.Now there's also a good, flexible system on the way for it...
107. 
     Dapumkins

     Reviewing 0.2.2 (Jun 24, 2004)

     Windows isn't free. This is.
108. 
     bigbill

     Reviewing 0.2.2 (Jun 23, 2004)

     We already have something that does this, it is called WINDOWS
109. 
     sjc001

     Reviewing 0.2.2 (Jun 23, 2004)

     Aren't they afraid that Microsoft will sue them for comfusing people?
110. 
     tp

     Reviewing 0.2.2 (Jun 23, 2004)

     this is interesting.. A for effort without even looking at their site lol.. anybody tried it?

Discuss ReactOS

1. Nov 29, 2011 - 12:29 PM
   drkstlkr

   Many of you who wonder why ReactOS is still using an "outdated Windows XP" interface are completely missing many valuable points of ReactOS. For one, most of your novice Windows users are very comfortable with Windows XP, and HATED Vista's newer interface, let alone trying to learn a new OS, such as Linux. ReactOS is a viable option for people who are still using an older computer, possibly who's hard drive crashed, and can no longer order recovery discs from the manufacturer. Most people could afford another new hard drive for around $70, but don't want to spend $200 for the retail version of Windows Vista/7. Many users and companies still use software tailored for Windows XP that have known issues running in Vista/7. Most advanced users wouldn't run ReactOS, so stop looking at it from that narrowed perspective.
2. Feb 6, 2009 - 7:46 AM
   bobad

   @DeadFly,
   
   90% of all computer users disagree with you. Only a few geeks care to learn a new OS, and give up (or have a hassle running) the software they have been relying on for years. You may dream that Linux will make the average computer user happy, but that's not reality.
   
   ReactOS would be much more acceptable to the masses. Too bad development is so slow. Because of the slow development, it will probably fail.
3. Feb 5, 2009 - 10:56 PM
   DeadFly

   In the reviews, mackintire suggests that ReactOS could be a replacement for XP when it is retired. I think given the comparatively huge development effort behind Linux, ReactOs has little chance of going mainstream. Linux + Wine + Samba could be a better solution.