"World of Private Operating Systems: Tails, Qubes, and Whonix"

At the end of this article you will get to know about how you can take your privacy side by side on your operating system. Why are they important, how they function and some of the prominent examples that are easy to use for an individual such as Tails OS, Qubes OS and Whonix OS.

What Are Private Operating Systems?

Private operating systems (OS) are versions of operating systems mostly Linux based that focus on maintaining user privacy, anonymity, and security. Unlike traditional operating systems, which are designed for general purpose use these OS are more focused on maintaining privacy and security for user and the operating system as well.

• Anonymity: Normal operating systems can keep track of your location and much more, but private operating systems have various options to play with it.
• Data Encryption Tools: These operating systems often have built-in tools that are used for various purposes such as tools for private communication, data encryption and much more.
• System Isolation: Using techniques like virtual machines (VMs) or containerization to isolate activities and prevent cross-contamination of data.
• Protection from Malware and Threats: Specialized security tools and mechanisms to protect users from malicious actors, viruses, and intrusions.

Tails OS: The Amnesic Privacy Tool

Tails OS (The Amnesic Incognito Live System) is a Linux-based operating system that runs from a live USB stick. That's the reason why its my favorite one, it runs temporarily on RAM (Random Accessory Memory) and every operation you do is vanished, when you run it again nothing will be their.

Key Features:

• Whole internet traffic is passed from TOR (The Onion Routing) protocol which almost makes it impossible to track the IP address of user.
• Again talking about no tracking, all the data is erased ones you shut it down, still you can encrypt your storage.
• No installation or configuration is required, Tails can be used from almost any computer.

Use Case: Ideal for individuals who need to perform sensitive tasks like investigating whistleblowing, communicating with sources securely, or browsing the web anonymously without leaving any trace.

Qubes OS: Security Through Isolation

Qubes OS is a security-centric operating system that uses virtualization technology to isolate various tasks and applications in different virtual machines (VMs), providing a multi-layered security approach. Its literally like using an operating systems in multiple blocks that are independent from each other and can easily be killed (stop) in case of any threat or cyber attack.

Key Features:

• Each app or task runs in its own isolated Virtual Machine, which itself reduces many security threats.
• Uses Xen hypervisor for creating VMs, which can run multiple operating systems.
• It uses granular control which means that user can restrict access to every function being used in that window such as network, data etc.
• Disposable temporary VMs can be created for tasks such as browsing the internet or email, ensuring that no traces remain after use.

Use Case: Best suited for advanced users who need a high level of security for sensitive tasks, such as cybersecurity professionals, journalists, or researchers working in potentially hostile digital environments.

Whonix OS: Anonymity through Two Virtual Machines

Whonix OS is a privacy-focused Linux distribution that uses a two-VM architecture to enhance privacy and security. One VM handles all the internet traffic and routes it through the Tor network, while the second VM is used for activities like browsing and file management, ensuring that all internet-related tasks are anonymized.

Key Features:

• The Whonix-Gateway VM connects to the internet through Tor, while the Whonix-Workstation VM operates with no direct internet connection, ensuring isolation.
• Tor is the default method for anonymizing internet traffic.
• Designed to run as a virtual machine inside other operating systems, providing users with additional layers of protection.

Use Case: Ideal for users who require high levels of anonymity for tasks such as secure browsing, communication, and research, particularly when dealing with sensitive topics or operating in hostile environments.

Conclusion:

I personally believe in this digital era where data is the new oil and is easily accessible, its necessary to take some time and use a privacy oriented operating system with your main operating system, then you can decide which OS to use for which purpose. For example you can easily carry Tails OS as your portable operating system in a USB drive and can use it wherever and whenever you want.