Do not confuse OpenWindows with old Sun Microsystems software with the same name.
OpenWindows is a project to create a free Windows operating system made out of these components:
- OpenWindows Bootloader: The bootloader is responsible for booting OpenWindows. This is
technically and internally known as
owboot. - Kernel: The kernel is the most important part. OpenWindows does not use Microsoft's NT kernel, but rather it's own open-source NT kernel. For more info, see the FreeNT documentation.
- Platform: OpenWindows uses OW32 and OW64 platforms. OW64 is compatible with OW32 legacy apps.
- Microsoft Layer: Provides support for the Win32 and (on OW64-based systems) Win64 platforms in OpenWindows, by reimplementing Win32 and Win64 APIs and converting the rest of the executable into OpenWindows platform.
- Installer (Part 1): Part 1 of the installer installs all required files for part 2.
- Installer (Part 2): Part 2 of the installer installs all of the tools, games, etc.
- Linusti: Linusti is a reimplementation of WSL to run programs designed for the Linux
Kernel on OpenWindows. No dual-boot required.
- LinustiG: A Wayland server with PulseAudio and XWayland. Run graphical Linux Kernel programs.
Warning: Installation of OpenWindows will delete all data, including files, apps, settings, passwords, etc. Back-up your current OS before continuing.
Note: Installation of OpenWindows requires an NTFS or FAT partition with a Windows-style drive letter. OpenWindows cannot identify any other partition. If you do not have an NTFS or FAT partition, install Microsoft Windows to create one with a letter before installing OpenWindows.
For instructions on installing OpenWindows, see the guide at the OpenWindows documentation. This guide is split into different sections, so carefully read each step and do not skip any steps unless the guide asks you to.