Best Free Operating Systems of 2025

Altima Linux is an open-source operating system that has been tailored to meet our preferences, featuring a curated selection of top-notch open-source software applications. It serves as an excellent alternative to both Windows and MacOS, built on the robust foundation of Debian Linux. This desktop environment comes equipped with all the free software necessary for everyday computing tasks, while additional specialized applications are available through detailed installation guides. You can download it for free and revitalize many older computers, breathing new life into what you might have considered outdated hardware, which is often just bogged down by unnecessary bloat. Key applications included are LibreOffice, PhotoShack, Inkscape, Sublime Text, QEMU, Nginx, Audacity, VLC Media Player, Epiphany, and Remmina, with recommendations for supplementary downloads like VirtualBox and WINE. A standout feature of Altima Linux is its seamless integration of the aesthetics of both Windows and Mac, creating a user-friendly desktop environment that appeals to both novices and seasoned users alike. We trust that you will find great enjoyment in exploring and utilizing Altima Linux as your computing solution. Embrace the opportunity to experience a modern yet familiar interface that enhances productivity and creativity.

TrueNAS is the world's most deployed storage software. TrueNAS is a universal data platform that allows users to easily adopt a modern, open source approach to storing and protecting their growing data. TrueNAS is open source and harnesses the power of the legendary ZFS file system to provide unified storage (File, Block Object, and Apps) with the reliability and performance demanded by virtualization, backup, and many other data-heavy workloads.

Qubes OS is an open-source operating system designed with a strong emphasis on security for individual desktop users. It utilizes Xen-based virtualization technology to create and manage distinct isolated environments known as qubes. Each qube operates as a virtual machine (VM) and serves specific functions, which can include running a variety of isolated applications tailored for personal or professional use, managing the network stack, handling firewall duties, or achieving other user-defined objectives. By incorporating the robust security features of the Xen hypervisor, Qubes OS provides a level of protection comparable to that used by major hosting services to keep websites and services securely separated. If you're unsure about which Linux distribution suits your needs, or if you require a particular Windows application for your job, Qubes offers the flexibility of running multiple operating systems simultaneously. Additionally, with the integration of Whonix into Qubes, accessing the Internet anonymously through the Tor network becomes both safe and straightforward, enhancing your overall online privacy. This unique capability makes Qubes OS an ideal choice for users who prioritize security and versatility in their computing experience.

PixelOS is a custom ROM built on AOSP that integrates Google applications along with all the delightful features of Pixel devices. Our goal is to deliver a user experience akin to that of Google Pixel smartphones, while incorporating various performance optimizations and a select range of beneficial extra functionalities. This ensures that users enjoy not only the aesthetic of Pixel devices but also enhancements that improve overall usability.

Enhance the efficiency, dependability, and personalization of your Android device. By utilizing crDroid, you unlock a plethora of customization choices without sacrificing either performance or security. Tailor the icons displayed on your screen, adjust visual effects, and modify the arrangement of quick settings rows and columns to suit your preferences. You can opt for gesture navigation or stick to traditional navigation buttons, and even personalize the functionality of your hardware buttons. Since your lock screen is the first impression for your friends, make it a captivating showcase of your style. Your phone should reflect your individuality; toggle dark mode on or off and select your favorite color schemes to create a device that's uniquely yours. With crDroid, the possibilities for personal expression are virtually endless, making your everyday interactions more enjoyable and tailored to your tastes.

Sailfish OS presents a European alternative to the widely used mobile operating systems and uniquely offers an exclusive licensing model for local adaptations. Since its inception in 2013, it has progressed to its fourth generation, providing a secure platform tailored for reliable mobile solutions. Users can take advantage of Sailfish OS's capability to run Android™ applications through its dedicated App Support feature. This operating system is designed not only for smartphones and tablets but is also highly adaptable for various embedded devices and applications. The latest version, Sailfish 4, introduces numerous new features that enhance support for diverse ecosystem initiatives, ranging from private corporate implementations to public sector governmental use. Additionally, Sailfish OS is equipped with advanced security measures specifically crafted for both corporate and governmental settings. In Sailfish 4, user information enjoys full encryption, while apps are safeguarded by Firejail sandboxing, ensuring robust data protection. Furthermore, these security enhancements make Sailfish OS a compelling choice for organizations prioritizing data integrity and privacy.

Artix Linux is a rolling-release distribution derived from Arch Linux, emphasizing the use of real init systems because PID1 should prioritize simplicity, security, and stability. Users have the flexibility to install various init systems such as openrc, runit, s6, suite66, or dinit from any available ISO. The installation process can be carried out either via the console or through a graphical user interface. Presently, Artix offers three types of installation media: base, graphical, and community editions. For those who may not have extensive Linux experience, it is advisable to opt for a community edition. The base installation can be initiated from any ISO, which is particularly advantageous for users encountering difficulties with wireless network cards or those requiring an active graphical environment during setup. Moreover, users have the option to select a different init system than the one provided by the installation medium. The base ISOs are tailored for a fully customizable installation and are designed to be utilized in a TTY, making them suitable for advanced users who are comfortable with the intricacies of Linux systems. Ultimately, Artix Linux caters to a diverse range of users, from novices to experts, by providing multiple pathways for installation and configuration.

A distro that emphasizes a terminal-focused experience, it boasts a warm and welcoming community at its foundation. This lively and supportive community serves as the essential guide on your journey with the distro. Discover the evolving and lightweight nature of our system and access our latest release page to read more and download it. For those seeking assistance, the EndeavourOS knowledge base offers a wealth of wiki articles and video tutorials, serving as a helpful resource during your quest to create a personalized system. Embark on a unique adventure as you craft your own computing experience. If you enjoy hands-on exploration and a sense of adventure, this distro might be just what you’re looking for. Rather than providing a direct route to a set destination, EndeavourOS focuses on the process of exploration, allowing you to meet new and friendly individuals along the way, making it truly your distinctive Endeavour. Each step you take brings you closer to discovering what your computing experience can become.

NomadBSD is a persistent live operating system designed for USB flash drives and is built upon FreeBSD®. It features automatic hardware detection and setup, making it ready for immediate use as a desktop system, while also serving purposes such as data recovery, education, or testing hardware compatibility with FreeBSD®. The images suitable for both 64-bit and 32-bit machines can be stored on a 5GB USB flash drive, and a system equipped with a 1.2GHz CPU and 1GB of RAM should handle NomadBSD adequately. Users can boot the system via either BIOS or UEFI interfaces. Recently, a new versioning scheme has been introduced, formatted as FFfX-YYYYMMDD, where FF indicates the major two-digit version of FreeBSD, 'f' represents the minor version, and 'X' denotes the status as ALPHA (A), BETA (B), RC, or RELEASE (R), followed by the date. This updated versioning allows for the distribution of images featuring various FreeBSD versions, enhancing the flexibility and usability of the system. Additionally, this approach ensures that users can select the specific version that best meets their needs.

Revitalize your organization's computing systems to ensure they are secure, manageable, and maintain optimal performance at all times. CloudReady offers the advantages of web functionality without the burdens or vulnerabilities associated with conventional operating systems. It's a modern operating system tailored for current needs and future advancements. For this reason, various organizations—including businesses, non-profits, educational institutions, and government bodies globally—rely on CloudReady to enhance the security and efficiency of their devices when utilizing web applications and virtual desktop infrastructures. Built on Google’s Chromium OS, which shares the same open-source framework as Chrome OS, CloudReady is suitable for computers of any age, from the latest models to those over ten years old. By adopting CloudReady, users can experience exceptional speed, ease of use, and robust security, free from hardware constraints, making it a versatile choice for any organization. Furthermore, this adaptability allows users to maximize their existing technology investments while staying ahead in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Zorin OS was designed to be simple so that you don't have to know anything. The Zorin Appearance app allows you to change your desktop to match the environment you are used to, regardless of whether you're using Windows, macOS, Linux, or both. Zorin OS is built on an Ubuntu and Linux foundation. It runs on the same Open Source software as NASA, the U.S. Department of Defense and many other organizations. Zorin OS is immune to viruses thanks to Linux's advanced security features. Software updates and security patches are available for many years. Zorin OS runs lightning fast and doesn’t slow down when it comes to updates. The Lite edition runs fast on computers older than 15 years. This allows you to breathe new life into your old PCs. Zorin OS includes powerful apps right out of the box, including a complete Microsoft Office-compatible office suite and professional photo editing software. There are many more apps and games available at the Software store and Steam.

Haiku is a continuously evolving open source operating system designed for personal computing. It stands out for its speed, efficiency, and user-friendly nature, catering to computer users of varying expertise. What sets Haiku apart from other open source options is its cohesive development team that handles everything from the kernel and drivers to userland services, toolkits, graphics stack, and desktop applications. While it incorporates various open source projects, they are integrated in a way that ensures a remarkable consistency, enhancing the experience for both users and developers. This level of integration not only provides convenience but also makes the system enjoyable to navigate. The Be Operating System laid the groundwork for innovative concepts and technologies that Haiku continues to embody, representing an ideal approach to streamlined and efficient personal computing. Ultimately, the blend of simplicity and power makes Haiku a compelling choice for those seeking a robust operating system.

Explore the advantages of ChromeOS for PCs and Macs with its cloud-first, user-friendly, and secure approach. ChromeOS Flex offers a free and eco-friendly solution to upgrade your existing devices effortlessly. You can easily deploy it across multiple machines or simply test it out to discover the benefits of a cloud-centric operating system. By installing ChromeOS Flex on your computers, you ensure they are secure, boot up quickly, maintain peak performance over time, receive automatic background updates, and can be managed remotely through the cloud. Devices start swiftly, remain efficient, and update seamlessly, minimizing downtime for users. Enjoy rapid access to virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) and web applications in a streamlined and dependable environment. You can roll out ChromeOS Flex to your entire fleet using USB or network installation, and user settings and policies are synchronized to devices almost immediately. The Google Admin console allows for easy remote management of updates and configuration of device policies. Furthermore, the use of blocked executables and sandboxing technology eliminates the necessity for traditional antivirus solutions, making it a smart choice for modern businesses. This innovative operating system not only enhances security but also improves the overall productivity of your workforce.

The system analyzes all web traffic and can block specific websites through both HTTP and HTTPS using the Squid proxy. It is integrated with ClamAV antivirus and employs site blacklists for enhanced security. The setup features a multi-domain web server powered by a ready LAMP stack, allowing for the hosting of multiple domain names on a single server. Built on NextCloud, it offers universal access to your files via the web, personal computers, or mobile devices, ensuring you can access your information from anywhere. Additionally, it provides a private alternative to Slack through the Mattermost platform, which facilitates secure collaboration among teams. The modern web interface, built on Cockpit, streamlines common administrative tasks and boasts a quick and straightforward installation process. This infrastructure is based on CentOS/RHEL, a widely used server distribution known for its routine security updates and exceptional stability, making it a reliable choice for various applications. With this setup, users can benefit from both functional versatility and robust security measures.

NetBSD is a completely free, rapid, secure, and exceptionally adaptable Unix-like open-source operating system. It caters to an extensive array of platforms, ranging from robust servers and capable desktop computers to portable and embedded gadgets. First introduced in 1993, NetBSD's code has gradually permeated numerous unexpected environments due to its longstanding reputation for quality, neatness, and reliability. This operating system is fundamentally rooted in 4.4BSD Lite2, which originated from the University of California, Berkeley. Unlike a typical "distribution" or variant, NetBSD has developed over several decades into a distinctive and comprehensive operating system within the BSD lineage, supported by a global community of developers. Users of NetBSD benefit from a straightforward, well-documented, and entirely cohesive UNIX-like experience that maintains a minimalistic approach while embracing a wealth of modern features and compatibility with contemporary hardware. This combination of attributes has made NetBSD a compelling choice for both enthusiasts and professionals alike.

The OpenBSD operating system is entirely developed by a community of volunteers. Funding for the development environment and various developer events is sourced through donations managed by The OpenBSD Foundation. These contributions play a vital role in ensuring the longevity and accessibility of OpenBSD as a free operating system. As a result, the OpenBSD project has integrated cryptographic features in multiple areas throughout the system. We insist that all cryptographic software utilized must be available without cost and come with favorable licenses. Direct use of cryptography encumbered by problematic patents is strictly avoided. Additionally, we prioritize sourcing such software from countries that offer favorable export regulations, as we are committed to adhering to international laws. Our decision-making process remains focused on technical excellence, avoiding political influences whenever possible. Ultimately, this commitment to both free software and legal compliance underscores the integrity of the OpenBSD project.

OS108 is a rapid, transparent, and secure desktop operating system that is constructed on the foundation of NetBSD. The name derives from the fascinating fact that a byte consists of binary bits represented as 1s and 0s in 8-bit groups, along with the intriguing distance between the Earth and the Sun being approximately 108 times the Sun's diameter. We are continuously seeking contributors who wish to engage with the project in various capacities. Even if you lack development skills, you can still make a valuable contribution by creating how-to guides, user-oriented documentation, and participating in support forums to assist fellow users. Your involvement can significantly enhance the community and improve the overall experience for everyone involved.

Guix is a sophisticated distribution of the GNU operating system that is created by the GNU Project and emphasizes the autonomy of computer users. This system offers features such as transactional upgrades and roll-backs, along with unprivileged package management, enhancing user flexibility and control. When utilized as an independent distribution, Guix enables declarative system configurations, ensuring that operating systems are both transparent and reproducible. It also includes Guile Scheme APIs, which feature high-level embedded domain-specific languages (EDSLs) for defining packages and entire system setups. With an extensive repository containing thousands of packages, Guix provides users with access to a wide range of applications, system utilities, documentation, fonts, and other digital resources that can be easily installed using the GNU Guix package manager. Additionally, Guix fosters a community that encourages collaboration and sharing of knowledge, making it a valuable resource for developers and users alike.

PLD is a free Linux distribution based on RPM, established in 1998, designed for experienced users and administrators who are willing to make compromises for greater flexibility, often requiring manual configuration. Its support for numerous architectures and a progressive stance on RPM application ensures that users experience a reliable environment across nearly all hardware platforms. This approach not only enhances usability but also fosters a diverse community of users who appreciate the freedom to customize their systems.

Salix is a streamlined GNU/Linux distribution that is derived from Slackware, emphasizing simplicity, speed, and user-friendliness, with a strong focus on stability. It maintains full compatibility with Slackware, allowing users to access Salix's repositories as an additional high-quality source for their preferred distribution. Comparable to a carefully cultivated bonsai, Salix is designed to be compact and lightweight, resulting from meticulous attention to detail. The ISO includes everything necessary for installation, featuring a complete desktop environment along with a well-rounded selection of applications that adhere to the principle of "one application per task." However, it includes only the essential components needed to initiate a console system, intentionally omitting a graphical interface. This makes Salix particularly suitable for advanced users who wish to tailor their installation for specific functions, such as setting up a web or file server, allowing for a highly personalized computing experience. Additionally, users can appreciate the flexibility offered by Salix to create a customized environment that meets their unique needs.

Slint stands as a robust distribution, with accessibility software being frequently updated, while other components receive updates on an as-needed basis. Users can operate Slint in both console and graphical modes, effortlessly transitioning between them without the need for a system reboot. Additionally, it allows for the simultaneous launch of multiple graphical environments, making it versatile for various tasks. The Slint dashboard offers immediate access to essential tools, pertinent information, and useful links, enhancing user experience. The installation program, designed in text mode, is fully accessible for visually impaired users utilizing a screen reader or Braille display, navigating through a question-and-answer format that includes online assistance and integrated documentation. Notably, the btrfs file system is set up with subvolumes rather than distinct partitions, which effectively halves the space taken up on the storage medium, facilitates snapshot creation, and is particularly well-suited for SSDs, NVMe drives, and USB flash drives. This thoughtful design makes Slint not only user-friendly but also efficient in managing system resources.

Trisquel is designed for immediate use in both home and office environments, with effortless access to new applications for installation. You can consult our documentation to discover the various features available to you. Notably, accessibility is prioritized in Trisquel’s standard edition, ensuring that our manuals are compatible with screen readers and supplemented by a range of informative audio guides. The Trisquel operating system can be downloaded at no cost, making it easily accessible to everyone. To aid in sustaining our efforts, consider making a donation, becoming a member, or purchasing hardware from ThinkPenguin or Technoetical to support our mission. Engaging with our community not only helps us grow but also enhances your experience with Trisquel.

This operating system is perfect for individuals seeking to maximize their computing experience while enjoying a classic desktop layout. Its lightweight hardware requirements make it compatible with contemporary workstations, single-board computers, and even older systems. Ubuntu MATE enhances the performance of new machines and revitalizes older devices for practical use. We are pleased to offer pre-configured images for various models including the Raspberry Pi 2, 3, 3+, and 4, along with a selection of ultra-mobile PCs like the GPD Pocket, GPD Pocket 2, GPD MicroPC, and Topjoy Falcon, ensuring a versatile solution for diverse computing needs.

It encompasses all the essential software necessary for your everyday activities—such as email, internet browsing, document editing, gaming, and a plethora of additional applications. MidnightBSD, supported by a small yet passionate group of developers, aims to build an accessible operating system that is available for everyone to use at no cost. This system is compatible with x86, AMD64 architectures, and can also be run as a Virtual Machine. While the FreeBSD project has established a robust server operating system, it frequently neglects the usability and performance aspects required for desktop environments. It is crucial to customize scheduling, resource allocation, security measures, and application support to better serve desktop users. Many BSD-based projects are designed primarily for server use or older systems, and while some offer FreeBSD with a user-friendly graphical interface, they still suffer from an underlying server-oriented structure. Our decision to fork FreeBSD was not due to any conflict, but rather because we saw it as an exceptional foundation to build upon. Ultimately, our goal is to bridge the gap between server efficiency and desktop user experience.

OmniOS is an open-source server operating system designed to include only essential features. Its native file system, ZFS, integrates a volume manager with robust data integrity protections. You can effortlessly share volumes using protocols like iSCSI, CIFS, and NFS. Additionally, OmniOS allows the execution of lightweight virtual machines running either OmniOS or Linux in containers, eliminating the traditional hypervisor's overhead while ensuring complete resource management. For those needing full hardware virtualization, it supports bhyve and KVM, allowing the operation of various guest systems including Microsoft Windows and FreeBSD. Network infrastructure can be virtualized through Crossbow, which offers virtual interfaces and switches, plus the option to allocate dedicated resources for specific applications. DTrace serves as a powerful dynamic tracing framework to facilitate troubleshooting across the software stack, enabling real-time instrumentation whenever needed. As an open-source project, OmniOS is self-hosting and its development is actively managed on GitHub, where contributors can submit pull requests, and anyone interested can access the source code to compile their own version of OmniOS. This environment fosters community involvement and transparency in the development process.