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How to try Arcane OS
Choose a public-site, browser-runtime, Microsoft NT, Linux, or WSLg development path without mistaking a development artifact for a release.
The public documentation is available now, but Arcane OS itself is not a public release. Choose the path that matches your access and platform.
If you are visiting the public site
You can:
- learn what Arcane OS is and what is implemented;
- search the reviewed public documentation;
- inspect the published shared-runtime source snapshot;
- explore the component specimens and development diagnostics exposed by the site;
- review Microsoft NT and Linux walkthroughs that use controlled, credential-free images.
You cannot download or install Arcane OS from the public documentation site. The site has no native machine authority, account-management access, shell, hidden repository files, or hidden AI credential.
Start with What is Arcane OS?, then review Capabilities and current status and Arcane applications.
If you are an authorized contributor
You need access to the private repository. Follow Repository and download access before attempting the commands below.
Browser-runtime and documentation work
Use Node.js 22 or newer, Git, Git LFS, and the locked npm dependencies. The supported setup and verification commands are in Developer setup.
This is the lightest route for documentation, shared JavaScript, components, and browser-context application packages. It does not grant native Arcane capabilities.
Microsoft NT native development
Microsoft NT is the primary native development host. The supported bootstrap creates or reuses a local, non-exportable development signing identity and builds a development-signed distribution. It does not configure production signing.
After setup, an authorized contributor can directly open Arcane Shell in the current desktop session or use the controlled first-user walkthrough. Read Developer setup and Provision your first Arcane OS user.
Linux or WSLg development
Linux is an experimental unsigned-local path. Ubuntu under WSLg is the most approachable route for contributors on Microsoft NT. A direct Shell launch does not require a Linux logout or account change.
Read Install and run Arcane OS on Linux or WSL. Use the separate Linux user-provisioning walkthrough only if the account journey is actually in scope.
Before you begin
- Use only synthetic or disposable data.
- Do not treat screenshots, a local package, or a passing development check as release evidence.
- Do not place credentials in screenshots, logs, issues, source files, or chat.
- Keep native installation and account changes inside the documented platform authorization boundary.
- Run the focused development checks for the surface you changed.
There is no public download yet
Arcane OS has no public installer, production signer, release channel, or supported upgrade path. A future public release would require an exact candidate, production signing, security and privacy review, accessibility verification, clean-machine acceptance, operational readiness, and an accountable go/no-go decision.