Real Linux. In a browser tab. No install. No server. No Docker

7 hours ago

LinuxOnTab is a browser-based Linux desktop that boots a real x86 kernel and Alpine userland using WebAssembly and v86 emulator, requiring no installation or sign-up.
It offers full networking via an optional WebSocket backend, allowing TCP egress and port tunneling for SSH, SCP, SFTP, and rsync, with persistent storage via IndexedDB snapshots.
The tool is sandboxed in the browser, works offline after caching, supports the Alpine package ecosystem, and is ideal for disposable shells, demos, and teaching.
Key features include Picture-in-Picture mode for floating terminals, URL-driven configuration for demos, and peer-to-peer file sharing via Nostr relays.
It is a complement to Docker, differing in use cases: LinuxOnTab for quick, ephemeral tasks; Docker for reproducible builds and production.
Setup involves setting a root password, installing tools, and using scripts for tunneling, enabling direct SSH and file transfers between host and guest.

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