Category: Non-Linux PC Operating Systems [Alternatives to Windows other than Linux.] (15)

Category: Non-Linux PC Operating Systems (15)
Alternatives to Windows other than Linux.
DR-DOS ($)
DR-DOS is a commercial replacement for MS-DOS. Well worth it if you need to run DOS but want to avoid Microsoft. Recommended.
eComStation ($)
eComStation is a derivative of OS/2 Warp. This appears to be the only commercially supported OS/2 product.
FreeBSD
One of the derivatives of BSD Unix. Free, open-source. Expertise required.
FreeDOS
FreeDOS aims to be a complete, free, 100% MS-DOS compatible operating system. (Yes, DOS is still an alternative to Windows.)
Haiku
Haiku is an open-source operating system inspired by BeOS. Still under development and (as of Jan '07) not yet ready for end users.
Information: FreeOS.com
A long list of alternative operating systems for PCs and other computers. Somewhat dated -- the last update to the site seems to have been in 2005.
Information: The OS Files
Very useful resource for information about all PC operating systems. Contains up-to-date release information, specifications, and links. (Not as complete as DistroWatch for Linux systems.)
MINIX
MINIX 3 is a Unix-like operating system for small computers. Requires '386 or better CPU, 16 MB RAM, 50 MB hard disk (600 MB for source code).
NetBSD
One of the derivatives of BSD Unix. Free, open-source. Expertise required.
OpenBSD
OpenBSD Unix, extremely secure operating system. Good choice for servers. Requires technical expertise.
OpenSolaris
The community-supported version of Sun's Solaris Unix operating system. Open source. Free starter kit available.
OSFree
osFree is an attempt to build an open source OS/2 clone. Currently under development and not available for testing. (Posted here for reference.)
PC-BSD
A FreeBSD derivative specifically for PCs, designed to be easier to install and use. Free, open-source.
ReactOS
ReactOS is a free, open-source clone of Windows XP. It's intended to be completely compatible with XP applications and device drivers. Currently in the alpha testing stage, and not recommended for everyday use.
Solaris 10
Sun's free, open-source Unix-like operating system. Popular on servers but usable on desktops. Expertise required.