joexbayer/RetrOS-32
FreeA x86 32bit Hobby Operatingsystem with graphics, multitasking, networking and 32bit C-Compiler for i386 architecture.
FreeFree tier
About joexbayer/RetrOS-32
RetrOS-32 is a fully custom hobby 32‑bit operating system targeting the i386 architecture. It features graphics, multitasking, networking, and includes its own 32‑bit C compiler. The kernel is written in C and Assembly, userspace applications in C++, and the build system uses Make with Docker support for cross‑platform compilation. The OS can be run on real hardware (tested on various laptops) or emulated via QEMU. It provides multiple default user accounts and supports GRUB as a bootloader.
Key Features
Graphics support
Multitasking
Networking stack
Built‑in 32‑bit C compiler (submodule)
Default user accounts (system, admin, guest)
Cross‑platform compilation via Docker
GRUB bootloader support
QEMU emulation support
Real hardware support (Lenovo x240, Asus Eee PC, Dell Optiplex 780, etc.)
Kernel written in C and Assembly, userspace in C++
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free and open source with permissive license
- Well‑documented README with step‑by‑step compilation and usage instructions
- Supports multiple hardware platforms and emulators
- Includes its own C compiler for self‑hosted development
- Actively maintained (over 1,000 commits)
Cons
- Not production‑ready; limited to hobbyist use
- Only supports 32‑bit i386 architecture
- Requires significant technical knowledge to set up and use
- No graphical user interface beyond basic console graphics
- Limited user management (no real security distinction between users)
Best For
Hobby operating system developmentLearning i386 architecture and OS internalsEducational projects on kernel and system programmingBuilding a custom OS from scratch
FAQ
How do I compile RetrOS‑32?
Run `make compile` then `make img` to create the disk image. For cross‑platform compilation, use Docker with `docker‑compose up --build`.
How can I run RetrOS‑32?
You can run it in QEMU with `make qemu`, or use GRUB to create an ISO and boot on real hardware. It has been tested on multiple PC models.
What are the default user accounts?
The default users are `system`, `admin`, and `guest`. The password for `admin` is `admin`; `guest` has no password.
What tools do I need to build RetrOS‑32?
For native compilation you need `i386-elf-gcc`, `i386-elf-ld`, `i386-elf-g++`, plus `grub2`, `xorriso`, and `xxd`. Docker is recommended for cross‑platform builds.
Can I run RetrOS‑32 on real hardware?
Yes, you can write the ISO to a USB or CD and boot it. It has been tested on various laptops like Lenovo x240, Asus Eee PC, and Dell Optiplex 780.