2024-04-26 13:46:00
The PC we use requires an operating system such as Windows. If it is a finished PC such as a laptop rather than an assembled PC, Windows is usually included in the product, so the price of Windows is also included in the price of the product, whether you know or not. There are also products that omit Windows in the basic configuration and are sold at a cheaper price. This product is commonly referred to as “FreeDOS”. What does it mean? This question was submitted by pioXXXX.
“Hello. When you are looking to buy a laptop, you will find products that have “FreeDoS” written in the operating system section. “I am curious to know what FreeDOS means, and if I buy a laptop laptop like this, will I be able to use it without having to install Windows (some modified content)
FreeDOS = Idiom referring to a product not included with WindowsFreeDOS is a type of DOS (Disk Operation System). DOS is an operating system used before the advent of operating systems such as today’s Windows. This method is used by entering commands directly.
The most representative DOS is MS-DOS, created by Microsoft before Windows. FreeDOS is an open source operating system created to forget its legacy following Microsoft stopped developing and supporting MS-DOS.
FreeDos operating system / Source = FreeDos
However, the term FreeDos used by laptop manufacturers or retailers does not necessarily mean FreeDos, but rather is an idiom indirectly expressing “operating system not included”.
Since a PC such as a laptop is useless without an operating system, the names of free operating systems such as FreeDOS are listed as if they were available in an assortment. For the same reason, it is often noticed that other open source operating systems such as Linux are listed instead of FreeDOS.
Products with “FreeDos” written on the operating system / Source = Coupang Capture
In fact, even if you buy such a laptop and install FreeDO as the operating system, it is difficult to use it normally. Since it is a DOS-like operating system used in the 90s, not only does it not allow correct use of current specifications and functions of laptops, but the interface is very different from DOS systems. modern operating systems, which makes it difficult to use unless you are an expert. Ultimately, if you buy a FreeDOS product, you must install Windows separately, it is essential. However, recently there have been an increasing number of cases where it is clearly stated that “operating system is not included”, perhaps to avoid consumer confusion.
Since FreeDos products do not include Windows, they are less expensive than products that have Windows installed. However, the difference varies depending on the seller, manufacturer, product, etc. You can buy a genuine product of “Windows 11 Home version for new users” for around 170,000-190,000 won, so if the price difference is less than that or similar, it would be better to buy a product of Windows installation rather than a FreeDos Product. This is especially true if you don’t want to bother installing Windows and installing drivers on your laptop yourself.
Genuine Windows 11 can be purchased online for around 170,000 to 190,000 won / Source = Danawa
However, if you replace your laptop frequently, it may be better to purchase a separate Windows or FreeDOS laptop. This is because Windows included in the laptop is a license that belongs to the device, so it cannot be recycled when replacing it with another laptop. On the other hand, if you are purchasing a product intended for Windows users for the first time, license recycling is possible, thus saving you from doubling operating system expenses.
Of course, this only applies to people who have enough computer knowledge to install the operating system and maintain the PC themselves. Otherwise, I recommend purchasing a product that includes Windows, even if there is a slight price difference.
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Kwon Taek-kyung, Donga IT journalist, [email protected]
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