What tasks can be performed in the cloud?

Today, most everyday tasks are easily accomplished using cloud services:

• Office work: Google Docs, Microsoft Office Online, OnlyOffice.
• File storage and synchronization: Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive.
• Communications and video calling: Zoom, Google Meet, Slack.
• Multimedia: Canva, Figma, Pixlr for image processing, Clipchamp for video editing.
• Software development: GitHub Codespaces, Replit, CodeSandbox.

Thus, users can work without having to install traditional applications.

Limitations of the cloud approach

Despite the advancement of technology, a complete move to the cloud can face a number of challenges:

• Dependence on the internet: without a stable connection, no work is possible.
• Limited offline capabilities: some services support offline access, but not all.
• Performance: Cloud applications may run slower on weak internet.
• Security and privacy: storing data on third-party servers requires trust in the providers.

Real-life cases of full cloud adoption

Some companies and users have already moved to cloud solutions:

• Educational institutions use Chromebooks and Google Workspace.
• Startups and developers are working through GitHub Codespaces and AWS Cloud9.
• Creative teams are moving to Figma and Canva instead of Adobe products.

Is it worth giving up on-premises software?

Moving to the cloud is possible, but it’s not right for everyone. For basic tasks – yes, but professionals working with powerful programs are still on traditional OS. Perhaps in the future cloud services will be able to completely replace local applications, but for now a hybrid approach looks more reasonable.

Conclusion

Complete abandonment of local software is possible for most office and communication tasks, but it requires good Internet, a well-thought-out ecosystem of services, and compromises in convenience. If your work involves resource-intensive processes (video editing, 3D graphics, programming on complex platforms), it’s better to combine cloud and on-premises solutions for now.

Are you ready to move completely to the cloud? Share your experience in the comments!

The post Moving Completely to the Cloud: Is it Possible to Abandon On-Premises Software? appeared first on RozAOS.

What is Web Desktop?

Web Desktop is an operating environment running in a browser. Web applications are used instead of local programs, and the system itself can be loaded from a cloud server or a local host.

Examples of such systems are:

• ChromeOS – the most successful implementation, albeit with a strong tie to Google.
• EyeOS, JoliOS, CloudReady – attempts to create a full-fledged Web Desktop environment.
• Desktop as a Service (DaaS) – an approach where the OS runs on a remote server.

Is it possible to replace a traditional OS?

Pros:

• Runs on any device (PC, tablet, smartphone).
• No dependence on specific hardware – runs even on weak PCs.
• Easy updates – everything is in the cloud, no need to download anything.
• Protection from viruses (all processes are isolated in the browser).
• Integration with cloud services (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.).

Minuses:

• Limited offline mode – without internet, functionality is reduced.
• Server dependency (if cloud server goes down, you lose access).
• Limited choice of programs (no classic Windows/Mac/Linux apps).
• Problems with heavy tasks (video editing, 3D graphics, coding complex projects).

Conclusion

It is possible to replace a traditional OS, but so far only in specific scenarios:

• For office work and education – yes.
• For mobile users – yes.
• For gaming and heavy tasks – no.
• For developers – partially (if cloud IDE and web dev).

Perhaps the future of Web Desktop is still ahead, but for now it complements rather than replaces classic OSes.

What do you think, is it possible to go completely to the browser?

The post Web Desktop with Your Own Hands: Is it Possible to Replace a Traditional OS? appeared first on RozAOS.

Browser selection

While most modern browsers have similar capabilities, the best ones for creating a cloud OS are:

1. Google Chrome – a powerful ecosystem with extensions and integration with Google services.
2. Mozilla Firefox – a great choice for those who value privacy.
3. Microsoft Edge – convenient for Windows users thanks to its integration with the OS.
4. Brave – fast and secure browser with a focus on privacy.

Web Application Customization

One of the key aspects of a cloud OS is using web applications instead of traditional software. Here’s a list of services to help replace standard programs:

• Office applications: Google Docs, Microsoft Office Online, Zoho Docs.
• Cloud storage: Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, Mega.
• Image editors: Photopea, Canva, Fotor.
• Development and programming: CodeSandbox, Replit, StackBlitz.
• File manager: Filestash, Workona.
• Music and video: Spotify, YouTube, Netflix.

Workspace organization

To make your browser a really convenient cloud environment, you need to properly organize your workspace:

• Use fixed tabs for frequently used services.
• Install tab managers (OneTab, Workona) for convenient work with multiple pages.
• Set up hotkeys for quick switching between applications.

Improve functionality with extensions

Extensions allow you to add features to your browser that are missing for full functionality. Here are some useful categories:

• Security and Privacy: uBlock Origin, Privacy Badger, HTTPS Everywhere.
• Password managers: Bitwarden, LastPass.
• Productivity: Momentum, Toby, Evernote Web Clipper.
• Remote Access: Chrome Remote Desktop, AnyDesk Web.

Create convenient file storage

A good cloud OS should be able to store and manage files. To do this, you can:

• Use Google Drive or Dropbox as your primary storage.
• Integrate files with your browser via Filestash.
• Set up FTP access via web clients (e.g. MonstaFTP).

Running full-fledged applications in the browser

Some services even allow you to run full-fledged operating systems inside the browser:

• Windows 365 – a cloud-based version of Windows.
• Jupyter Notebook – an environment for Python developers.
• Linux in the browser – via Web VM, OnWorks or JS/Linux.

Using the browser as a desktop

To make the browser look and work like a full-fledged OS, you can:

• Install Rainmeter (Windows) or Plasma Browser Integration (Linux) for better browser interaction.
• Use Workona to organize tabs and applications.
• Configure PWA (Progressive Web Apps) to run web applications as separate programs.

Conclusion

With the right approach, a browser can become a complete cloud operating system, allowing you to work from anywhere in the world without being tied to a specific device. By utilizing web apps, extensions, and cloud storage, you can create a convenient and productive work environment right in your browser. Try customizing your cloud OS and see the benefits!

The post How to Turn Any Browser into a Cloud Operating System? appeared first on RozAOS.

Interface and appearance

One of the key aspects of customization is the appearance of the environment. In most Web Desktop platforms, you can:

• Change the design themes (light/dark);
• Customize icons, desktop wallpaper;
• Change the layout of panels, widgets and menus;
• Add your own fonts and color schemes.

Examples:

• Chrome OS offers basic theme and wallpaper customization;
• Paperspace lets you change window layouts;
• Nextcloud + OnlyOffice supports toolbar customization.

Applications and integrations

Web Desktop can be augmented with various applications and services:

• Cloud storage integration (Google Drive, Dropbox, Nextcloud);
• Adding PWAs (progressive web applications);
• Running Linux applications in the cloud (on Shells or Windows 365);
• Connecting APIs to automate tasks.

Customization example: Using RollApp to run desktop applications like GIMP or LibreOffice directly in the browser.

File and access management

Web Desktop OSs offer different ways to work with files:

• Connecting multiple cloud storages into a single system;
• Setting up privacy and access rights;
• Organization of tagging system and quick links;
• Automatic synchronization of data between devices.

Example: In Jolicloud (legacy Web Desktop OS) it was possible to combine different cloud services (Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive) in one interface.

Performance and optimization

Although Web Desktop runs through a browser, you can improve its performance:

• Using lightweight themes and disabling animations;
• Customizing data caching for faster loading times;
• Optimizing RAM usage in the browser;
• Customize background services and auto-updates.

Example: In Chrome OS, you can enable Linux mode and optimize memory usage for heavy applications.

Alternative shells and custom builds

Some Web Desktop platforms allow you to change the shell itself or even create your own build:

• Nextcloud + Custom Apps – the ability to add your own modules;
• Porteus Kiosk – browser-based environment with full customization;
• Corteza – customizable platform for creating a cloud workspace.

Conclusion

Web Desktop is not just an alternative to traditional operating systems, but a flexible platform that can be customized to your needs. Want minimalism? Disable unnecessary panels and use only web applications. Need more features? Integrate APIs, add Linux support or cloud storage.

Try experimenting with Web Desktop and create your own unique digital environment!

The post Experimenting with Web Desktop: What Can You Customize? appeared first on RozAOS.

Choosing an operating system

To run Web Desktop on Raspberry Pi, you can use several operating systems optimized for running in a browser:

• Raspberry Pi OS (64-bit) – official OS with Chromium.
• Ubuntu Server + web interface – gives more flexibility for customization.
• DietPi – lightweight and optimized system for the cloud.
• FydeOS – Chinese alternative to Chrome OS running on ARM.

Setting up a web-centric environment

After selecting the OS, you can configure the Raspberry Pi to run as a Web Desktop:

• Install a browser: Chromium, Firefox, or even browser clients such as Midori.

Add support for cloud services:

• Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox.
• WebDAV to work with Nextcloud.

Optimize performance:

• Enable hardware acceleration in the browser.
• Use lightweight web applications.

Use Web Desktop shells

There are several solutions to turn your Raspberry Pi into a full Web Desktop environment:

• Porteus Kiosk, a web-oriented system for working with cloud services.

• Linux + Webtop (Docker) – deploy a full-fledged web desktop with XFCE or KDE.
• Nextcloud + OnlyOffice – an alternative to local office suite with cloud features.

Connecting to the cloud

If the Raspberry Pi is used as a thin client, you can connect it to a cloud OS:

• Windows 365 – access a Microsoft virtual desktop.
• Shells.com – running cloud-based Linux or Windows.
• AWS WorkSpaces – professional cloud workspace.

Performance and limitations

Although the Raspberry Pi can be used as a Web Desktop, it is worth considering:

• Limited computing power.
• Dependence on internet connection.
• Limited support for some cloud services.

Conclusion

Building a Web Desktop on a Raspberry Pi is an interesting experiment to create a lightweight, affordable and convenient cloud system. This approach is great for educational purposes, document management, and even lightweight development tasks. Want to give it a try? Do you already have a Raspberry Pi? Share your experience in the comments!

The post From Raspberry Pi to the Cloud: Creating a Web Desktop on a Microcomputer appeared first on RozAOS.

Changing the interface

Cloud OSes such as Chrome OS, Windows 365, and Linux-based Web Desktop systems allow you to customize the look and feel:

• Themes and design: changing color schemes, desktop wallpaper.
• Taskbar customization: adding quick links, rearranging items.
• Customizable widgets: add mini-apps for weather, calendar, notes, and tasks.

Hack: Use PWA (Progressive Web Apps) instead of traditional apps to manage your workspace easily.

File and storage management

Most cloud OSs integrate with different storage services, but they can be optimized:

• Cloud integration: combine Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive into a single file space.
• Set up automatic synchronization: define folders for constant backups.
• Optimize cache and temporary files: configure to clear unnecessary data to save space.

Hack: Use rclone or similar tools to work with multiple cloud services simultaneously.

Performance Improvements

You can use the following methods to speed up the cloud OS:

• Disabling unnecessary services and processes in the browser or background applications.
• Optimize browser performance: use extensions to block ads and reduce resource consumption.
• Customize network settings: Use VPN or custom DNS to improve connection speed.

Hack: If you use Chrome OS, activate Linux mode to run additional utilities and apps.

Using extensions and third-party services

Extensions and custom apps can greatly enhance the capabilities of a cloud OS:

• Password managers: for secure data storage (Bitwarden, 1Password).
• Additional file guides: for easy navigation (e.g. File System for Dropbox).
• Virtual machines and remote desktops: use Shells or Windows 365 to run traditional software.

Hack: Some cloud OSes support installing Android apps, which gives you access to millions of programs from Google Play.

Security and privacy

Security settings in cloud OSes can be enhanced with:

• Two-factor authentication for all cloud services.
• Data encryption using tools like Cryptomator.
• Anonymize networking via VPN and secure browsers (Tor, Brave).

Hack: Use Sandboxing (sandboxed environments) to test new applications without risk of data leakage.

Conclusion

Customizing your cloud OS not only helps you improve usability, but also performance, security, and functionality. Use interface customization, file optimization, extensions, and advanced hacks to make your cloud environment truly unique.

What hacks and customizations have you already used in your cloud OS? Share in the comments!

The post Customizing a Cloud OS: the Best Customizations and Hacks appeared first on RozAOS.

What is Corteza?

Corteza is an open source cloud platform designed for building enterprise applications. It provides tools for managing data, creating forms and reports, and supports CRM, ERP and other types of applications. Corteza enables you to build solutions that can be easily customized and adapted to your business needs.

Personalized Web Desktop with Corteza

One of the main benefits of using Corteza is the flexibility to customize interfaces and modules. You can completely customize the platform to fit your company’s needs, creating a unique user experience. For example, instead of a standard desktop with shortcuts and windows, you can create a work panel that includes only the applications you really need for your work.

How do I customize the interface?

In Corteza you have the possibility to customize the Web Desktop interface with different modules and widgets. You can choose which applications and tools will be displayed on the main panel. For example, you can place a panel with a CRM system on the desktop so that employees can easily track customer relationships, add tasks, track projects and view reports.

Another example would be to create a dashboard with chat and messenger integration for communication within the team. Built-in communication tools can help you quickly exchange messages without leaving the work interface.

Benefits of customization

• Business process support: Corteza allows you to integrate and customize the modules that are critical for your company. This can be a CRM system, ERP solutions or other business applications.
• Convenience and productivity: A desktop with custom modules allows employees to work faster because they only have access to the tools they need to perform specific tasks.
• Flexibility: You can add new modules and features as your company grows and evolves, adapting the system to meet new requirements.
• Cloud-based solution: Corteza runs in the cloud, giving you access to your dashboard from any device. The system can be used for both PCs and mobile devices.

Example use case

Imagine your company uses Corteza to manage projects, clients and communication. You can place several widgets on the main dashboard:

• CRM module to track all customer interactions, manage sales and tasks.
• Chat for communication between employees and discussing current tasks.
• Task board for visual control over projects and to-do’s.
• Calendar for planning meetings and events.
• Block with reports for analytics on key indicators.

Such an interface will be optimized for the specific needs of your team and will significantly increase productivity.

Conclusion

Corteza is a powerful platform for creating custom Web Desktop solutions. Its flexibility in customizing interfaces and modules allows you to create unique workspaces that best fit your business needs. Customizing the interface with CRM, chat, and other tools is a great solution to increase team efficiency and improve customer interaction.

The post Corteza as a Foundation for a Custom Web Desktop appeared first on RozAOS.