cheeseDOS is an x86, fully GNU GPLed, custom C99 written, 1.44MB, monolithic, live, Single Address Space Diskette Operating System that loads into RAM.
Note
cheeseDOS isn't "DOS-like" — it follows its own philosophy. The "DOS" in the name simply means it's a Disk Operating System (as in, it's stored on and boots from a disk… not a punch card).
Warning
On real hardware, cheeseDOS has direct access to low-level components and may cause irreversible hardware damage. While no such incidents have occurred, cheeseDOS comes "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW. See section 15, 16, and 17 in LICENSE.md for more information.
Note
If you have any problems, please open an issue, you WILL get help!
You can download the precompiled image here. Then write it to a floppy, learn more here.
OR
You can build from source, refer to the Build and Run Guide.
| Component | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Processor | i386-class or newer x86-compatible processor |
| Storage | 3.5" 1.44MB Floppy Diskette and a IDE Hard Drive |
| Graphics | VGA-compatible graphics adapter |
| Display | Color Monitor or Television (640×400 or better) |
| Audio | PC Speaker (Piezoelectric BIOS Beeper) |
| Keyboard | PS/2 or USB HID QWERTY keyboard |
| Firmware | CHS-capable BIOS |
- Fully under the GPLv3 License
- Fully compatible with i386-era hardware
- Uses 100% custom code and clib
- Compiles identically across all Linux systems
- Mostly made in C99
- Runs in a single address space
- The cheeseDOS wiki: The cheeseDOS wiki
- Contributing Guide: CONTRIBUTING.md
- GPLv3 License: LICENSE.md
- Security Policy: SECURITY.md