Live+Open+Source

= Open Source 'Live" Operating Systems = toc

Today's web environment is full of viruses, malware, and spyware. Users of the web often find their computers infected with these debilitating programs. Furthermore, web users that conduct private business online are in danger of having their information recorded and tracked. 'Live' operating systems can be a easy and safe alternative to traditional computer usage.

What is an open source 'Live' operating system?
'Live' cd's/dvd's offer users a method for operating a computer via a disk drive. While most operating system are housed on a computers hard drive, a 'Live' system runs directly form the disk drive. This allows users to use a different operating system than the one currently installed on their machine.

Using a 'Live' open source operating system allows users an alternative to their normal operating systems. See open source here. This open source system can be used to navigate the web in a safer environment. Banking transactions, personal, and other sensitive information can be transferred more safely over the web using open source operating systems. 'Live' open source cd's/dvd's can be downloaded via the web for free.

According to OSnews.com, "One big benefit to Live CDs is that you're guaranteed a malware-free OS. Some experts now recommend against doing your banking and finances online, or they say you should not use Windows if you do. Live CDs offer higher security for online banking. Every time you boot from the Live CD you initialize a fresh uncontaminated system, because the read-only disc can not be altered by malware. (Of course the original Live CD has to be virus-free but I have yet to hear of such contamination.)"

Examples of available 'Live' operating systems

 * openSUSU
 * Fedora
 * Ubuntu Cloud Live
 * Sabayon
 * Knoppix
 * Mandriva
 * See an extensive list here

**References**
OSnews. (2011). //How to Run Multiple Operating Systems//. Retrieved November 15, 2011, from OSnews: @http://www.osnews.com/story/24367/How_to_Run_Multiple_Operating_Systems Brand, N. (2011). //The LiveCD List//. Retrieved November 15, 2011, from The LiveCD List: @http://www.livecdlist.com/