Exploring OS/2 Warp: A Nostalgic Installation Guide
Written on
Chapter 1: A Journey Through OS/2 Warp
In this guide, we will explore how to install and run OS/2 Warp using VirtualBox, while also reminiscing about an operating system that, despite its potential, never achieved widespread popularity.
An indented block of text that serves to highlight key aspects of OS/2 Warp.
Section 1.1: Understanding OS/2 Warp
OS/2 Warp, developed by IBM and Microsoft, was a revolutionary operating system that introduced features like symmetric multi-processing and voice control. However, with the rise of Windows, the collaboration between the two tech giants dissolved. The first iteration of OS/2 launched in December 1987, and updates continued until December 2001. IBM ceased support for OS/2 at the end of 2006, leading to its ongoing development by third-party vendors such as Serenity Systems and Arca Noae LLC.
Subsection 1.1.1: A Reliable Legacy
OS/2 Warp remains a stable and dependable operating system, still utilized in specific sectors like banking ATMs and the New York transit system.
Section 1.2: Installing OS/2 Warp
To get started with OS/2 Warp, you will need three essential components:
- VirtualBox application for virtualization
- VirtualBox extension pack
- The OS/2 virtual machine image
Fortunately, all these resources are free and easily accessible.
Step 2: If you are using Mac OS, you will need to enable the System Extension by navigating to System Preferences -> Security & Privacy, allowing the software from "Oracle America, Inc." to execute. A reboot will be necessary afterward.
Step 3: Download the Oracle VM VirtualBox Extension Pack from the same Oracle site.
Step 4: Install the extension by double-clicking the downloaded file and following the prompts.
Chapter 2: Setting Up the Virtual Machine
Step 1: Open the .ova file by double-clicking it; it will begin the installation in VirtualBox.
Step 2: Click on the Import button.
Step 3: Start the virtual machine by clicking the Start button.
The first video, "OS/2 Warp 4 Exploration & Installing Software!" provides an overview of the installation process and highlights key features of OS/2 Warp.
Getting Networking Operational
Upon trying to browse any website using Netscape Navigator, you may encounter an error message stating that the server cannot be found. Here’s how to configure networking:
Step 1: Adjust the system preferences via the OS/2 Workplace Menu by navigating to OS/2 System -> System Setup -> TCP/IP Configuration (Local). Enable the LAN interface 0 and select "Automatically, Using DHCP." Confirm the changes and reboot the system.
After the reboot, you will see the ethernet adapter initializing, allowing you to browse the internet.
Note: You may be restricted to non-secure websites, but thankfully, Google remains accessible.
Changing the Screen Resolution
Adjusting the screen resolution in OS/2 Warp 4.5 is straightforward. Right-click on the Desktop, select System Setup, then double-click System to choose your desired resolution. A system reboot is required to apply these changes.
Some Observations on OS/2 Warp
While OS/2 Warp was innovative for its time, its interface might feel cumbersome today, as it lacks modern drag-and-drop functionality. Simple tasks can require more clicks than necessary, and the overall design appears tailored for power users rather than casual users. This perception is likely influenced by the advancements in user interface design over the past three decades.
The second video, "IBM OS/2 Warp 4 Installation Adventure," offers a fun exploration of the installation process and insights into the features of OS/2 Warp.
If you appreciate this guide or wish to contribute your writing, consider signing up below—it supports my work. Cheers!