ReactOS: The Open Source Windows Alternative Gets a Major GUI Upgrade
Over the years, there have been numerous attempts at creating alternatives to the Windows operating system. In our Look Back column, we have revisited some of these, such as Corel Linux and BeOS. And now, another potential alternative, ReactOS, has received a major update.
Often referred to as the “Open source Windows,” ReactOS has recently announced a new 64-bit UEFI bootability update that works on a wider range of devices. But that’s not all – the ReactOS team has also been working on improving the GUI-mode setup for a more user-friendly installation process.
The Importance of a Well-Defined GUI for ReactOS
With ReactOS being described as the open-source Windows, it is essential for it to have a well-designed graphical user interface (GUI) to appeal to the average user. In a recent blog post, the ReactOS team explains their efforts to improve on the installation process.
“Although the text-mode USETUP installation process may make sense, it can be daunting for the average user. The GUI-mode setup changes this by introducing a user-friendly wizard-style installation process, allowing users to go back and forth between different pages and make changes as needed,” the team writes.
The GUI also offers a minimal interface for partitioning, along with advanced options for choosing the target directory for installation. However, it is important to note that while ReactOS now supports UEFI, GPT (GUID partition table) is currently not functional.
The Familiarity of the ReactOS GUI
One of the main goals of the ReactOS team is to create an OS that is user-friendly, reliable, and familiar to users. That’s why the new GUI is designed similarly to the classic Windows setup, resembling that of Windows 95.
Take a look at the screenshots below to see the improved ReactOS Setup wizard, starting from the Welcome screen and ending on the partitioning page:
- Screenshot 1: Welcome screen
- Screenshot 2: EULA page
- Screenshot 3: Disk setup
- Screenshot 4: Advanced Options
- Screenshot 5: Partitioning
As ReactOS continues to develop and improve its interface, it may become a viable alternative for those looking for an open-source Windows experience. With its latest update and focus on a user-friendly GUI, it’s worth keeping an eye on.