ArcaOS
ArcaOS is a proprietary operating system developed and marketed by Arca Noae, LLC under license from IBM. It is based on the OS/2 operating system and was first released in 2017. The system has seen significant enhancements and updates to ensure compatibility with modern hardware and to address issues inherent in earlier OS/2 distributions.
Historical Background
The genesis of ArcaOS can be traced back to the OS/2 operating system, a collaborative project between IBM and Microsoft. After Microsoft shifted its focus to other projects, IBM continued developing OS/2 independently. Eventually, OS/2 became a niche product, used in specific sectors such as banking and automated teller machines (ATMs). The eComStation operating system, developed by Serenity Systems from 2001 to 2011, continued the OS/2 lineage until Arca Noae took over with ArcaOS.
Features and Capabilities
ArcaOS has been designed to maximize compatibility and usability on modern hardware. This includes support for UEFI booting systems and the ability to install and boot from GPT disk layouts. With the release of ArcaOS 5.1, the system introduced Secure Boot capabilities, allowing it to be installed alongside other operating systems while maintaining secure boot protocols.
Several portions of the OS have been entirely rewritten to harness the capabilities of modern PCs. This includes improved device support and addressing capacity limitations from previous OS/2-based releases. ArcaOS supports installation on large-capacity storage devices, such as 16TB solid-state drives (SSDs).
Technical Specifications
ArcaOS uses the RPM Package Manager system for software management, enabling users to install and manage software packages efficiently. It includes support for modern networking protocols and can run a wide array of applications originally designed for OS/2. Moreover, it provides virtualization capabilities allowing it to host or be hosted by other operating systems.
The OS extends support for various scripting and programming languages, including QBasic, which has been a part of the OS/2 family for a long time. ArcaOS also includes tools for managing and configuring virtual desktops, enhancing the usability of the workspace.
Market and Usage
Despite its niche market, ArcaOS has found a dedicated user base among enthusiasts of the OS/2 lineage and industries relying on legacy systems. Organizations that continue to rely on OS/2 for its stability and specific applications often transition to ArcaOS to utilize modern hardware without abandoning their existing software investments.