Open-Shell publishes both stable and pre-release builds. The release marked Latest is not necessarily the build with the highest version number. On October 30, 2026, the latest-stable link resolves to 4.4.198, while 4.4.202 is marked Pre-release.
What to do
- Open the project release list and inspect the badge on the exact release you intend to install. Do not infer stability from a search-result date or a mirror filename.
- Read the changes for the problem you are trying to fix. A preview can contain a relevant correction, but that does not establish compatibility with every Windows build.
- Save the current XML configuration and installer version before testing another channel. Prefer a spare Windows account or a disposable test environment for experiments.
- Compare behavior after the change using a short repeatable test: open Start, search, launch an app, and reopen Explorer. Keep the stable baseline until the new build meets your needs.
Check the result
Record the downloaded filename, tag, release badge, Windows build, and outcome together. That makes it possible to reproduce a later bug report.
Limits & precautions
The channel snapshot on this page is dated, not a live update feed. Follow the project release list for changes after the review date.
Questions & answers
Why is this site not offering 4.4.202 as the default?
It is marked Pre-release at the review date; the default follows the project stable release.
Can a preview include important fixes?
Yes. Evaluate the documented fix and your own recovery options before changing channels.
Sources & scope
Documentation checked October 30, 2026. These instructions are documentation-led, not a claim of hands-on testing on your Windows build.