Puter is a web-based operating system designed to be feature-rich, exceptionally fast, and highly extensible. It provides a complete desktop environment in the browser with file management, applications, and cloud storage capabilities, offering a unique approach to web-based computing.

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Repository activity:
Stars
33,157
Forks
2,462
Watchers
179
Open Issues
203
Last commit
about 17 hours ago
Details:
Estimated Popularity
138
Pricing Model
Free
Hosting Type
Self-Hosted
License
AGPL-3.0
Deployment Difficulty
Medium
Language
JavaScript

Puter is an innovative web-based operating system that brings the full desktop experience to your browser. It combines the familiarity of traditional desktop environments with the accessibility and convenience of web-based computing, offering a complete platform for file management, application usage, and cloud storage.

Key Features

  • Complete Desktop Environment:

    • Full desktop interface in the browser
    • Window management with resize, minimize, maximize
    • Taskbar with application launcher
    • System tray and notifications
    • Desktop wallpapers and themes
    • Multi-window multitasking
  • Advanced File Management:

    • Intuitive file explorer interface
    • Drag-and-drop file operations
    • File and folder organization
    • File preview and thumbnails
    • Search and filtering capabilities
    • Bulk file operations
  • Built-in Applications:

    • Text editor with syntax highlighting
    • Image viewer and basic editing
    • Media player for audio/video
    • Web browser within the OS
    • Calculator and utilities
    • Terminal emulator
  • Cloud Storage Integration:

    • Personal cloud storage space
    • File synchronization across devices
    • Real-time file updates
    • Backup and restore capabilities
    • Sharing and collaboration features
    • Version history tracking
  • Extensible Platform:

    • App store for additional applications
    • Custom app development support
    • API for third-party integrations
    • Plugin architecture
    • Theme customization
    • Widget system
  • Performance & Accessibility:

    • Fast loading and responsive interface
    • Optimized for various screen sizes
    • Keyboard shortcuts and accessibility
    • Offline capabilities
    • Progressive web app features
    • Cross-browser compatibility
  • User Experience:

    • Familiar desktop metaphors
    • Intuitive user interface
    • Customizable workspace
    • Multiple desktop support
    • User preferences and settings
    • Help and documentation system

Technical Specifications

  • Backend: Node.js with Express
  • Frontend: HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript
  • Storage: Cloud-based file system
  • Database: Various options for user data
  • Deployment: Docker containers
  • Platforms: Any modern web browser
  • APIs: RESTful APIs for extensibility

Use Cases

  • Remote Computing: Access your desktop from anywhere with internet
  • Education: Browser-based computing labs and classrooms
  • Kiosks: Public computer access without local installation
  • Development: Web-based development environment
  • Collaboration: Shared workspace for teams
  • Legacy Systems: Modern interface for older applications

Unique Advantages

  • No Installation: Complete OS experience without software installation
  • Universal Access: Available on any device with a web browser
  • Instant Setup: Ready to use immediately without configuration
  • Platform Independent: Works across different operating systems
  • Always Updated: Automatic updates without user intervention
  • Secure: Sandboxed environment with web security model

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