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5 Open-source and Free Operating Systems to Donate via Kivach

by Obyte6mJanuary 3rd, 2025

Too Long; Didn't Read

An operating system (OS) is the main software on a computer or mobile device that manages all other software and hardware. It lets you run apps, organize files, and interact with the device, acting like a bridge between you and the machine to make everything work smoothly. There are also free and open-source OS available for everyone, and we’re going to list some of them ahead.

featured image - 5 Open-source and Free Operating Systems to Donate via Kivach

Let’s remember that an operating system (OS) is the main software on a computer or mobile device that manages all other software and hardware, like Windows on desktop or Android on mobile. It lets you run apps, organize files, and interact with the device, acting like a bridge between you and the machine to make everything work smoothly.

We’re mostly used to a limited set of options when selecting an OS for our devices, and it’s not uncommon to just keep the one that came first with the device itself. However, it’s possible to change it for another one, in most cases. And that other one could bring more benefits and features —like being lighter or more private.

Of course, there are also free and open-source OS available for everyone, and we’re going to list some of them ahead. If you find them handy, you can always donate to them in cryptocurrency via Kivach. This is an Obyte-based cascading donation platform for open-source projects on GitHub, through which recipients can automatically redistribute their own donations to other projects and developers.

OpenBSD

First launched in 1996 by Theo de Raadt, this is a free, Unix-like operating system developed for enhanced security. Built from the BSD (Berkeley Software Distribution) system, it’s intended primarily for desktop and server environments. Known for its proactive security stance, OpenBSD emphasizes correctness and portability across various hardware platforms.

This system is also widely recognized for contributing to the OpenSSH software, used for secure remote communications worldwide.

OpenBSD’s main features include its robust cryptographic integrations, a meticulously crafted firewall, and continuous code auditing to maintain high security. It’s particularly popular for secure applications such as firewalls, routers, and intrusion detection systems. OpenBSD has also refined techniques like privilege separation, which restricts applications' access to certain system resources, bolstering its secure-by-default reputation.

Funding for OpenBSD comes from donations and support from the OpenBSD Foundation, a Canadian non-profit formed in 2007 to provide sustainable backing. If you’re interested in donating crypto to this project, you can find them on Kivach as openbsd/src.

LineageOS

LineageOS is a free OS for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets, initially launched in December 2016, as a fork from the discontinued CyanogenMod. Created by a global community of developers, LineageOS is rooted in the Android platform and offers a user-controlled, customizable experience without pre-installed apps from manufacturers or carriers. It's specifically designed for those looking to enhance or extend the life of their Android devices.

Some unique features of this system include advanced privacy and security options, such as its “Trust interface”, which provides alerts about security and privacy. Users can also enjoy customizable quick settings, PIN scramble for extra lock screen security, and theme options for a more personalized look. Additionally, LineageOS supports system profiles and app permissions control, making it flexible and ideal for power users or developers looking for greater control over their devices.

LineageOS releases frequent updates and security patches, typically aligned with Android’s security cycle and continues to support a wide range of devices. The project is community-funded and sustained primarily through donations via PayPal and Patreon, allowing it to remain independent and user-focused. To send them some coins, it’s possible to find them on Kivach as lineageos/android.

Ubuntu Touch

Ubuntu Touch is a free operating system tailored for mobile devices, developed by the UBports community. Originally launched by the firm Canonical in 2013, it was later passed to UBports in 2017 after Canonical discontinued support. Primarily designed for smartphones and tablets, Ubuntu Touch is unique for its "convergence" feature, which aims to extend the mobile experience to desktops and TVs.

While its primary focus remains mobile, it also offers an innovative experience by transforming a phone into a desktop when connected to a monitor.

Another standout feature of Ubuntu Touch is its emphasis on user control and privacy. It provides a pre-installed suite of essential apps and allows easy multitasking through gestures, offering a smooth, ad-free experience. The system also incorporates Libertine, a feature that enables users to run traditional Linux desktop applications on their devices. Ubuntu Touch’s interface is powered by Qt, designed to be intuitive and easily navigable.

The community releases periodic updates, keeping the OS adaptable and secure. In recent years, support has been extended to newer devices like the PinePhone, providing users with an alternative to Android and iOS backed by a committed open-source community.

UBports, a non-profit foundation, funds Ubuntu Touch through community donations, sponsorships, and an online shop. You could also donate cryptocurrency via Kivach.

Linux Kodachi

Released by Warith Al Maawali in 2013, this is a security-focused OS tailored for desktop users who prioritize privacy and anonymity. Running as a live OS from the temporary RAM in a computer, Kodachi leaves no traces on the host device once shut down, ensuring a safe and transient computing experience. It can be run via a USB drive.

Built on Xubuntu but shifting towards Debian in recent versions, Kodachi offers a user-friendly platform that requires no special Linux expertise to benefit from its privacy features. It comes with preconfigured tools for secure browsing and communication, including VPN, Tor network integration, DNSCrypt, and cryptographic utilities for file encryption and secure messaging. Its anti-forensic capabilities prevent data recovery attempts, while network monitoring tools provide real-time insights into security status.

Kodachi’s design ensures that online activities remain anonymous, making it particularly useful for high-stakes privacy needs. Maintained as a one-person project by Al Maawali, Kodachi sustains itself through community donations, including options for cryptocurrency and PayPal support. If you find it useful, you can donate to it via Kivach.

Whonix

Developed by Patrick Schleizer and released in 2012, Whonix is a free desktop OS designed for privacy and security. Built on Debian and the security-focused Kicksecure OS, it leverages the Tor network to anonymize user activities online, protecting against IP leaks and monitoring attempts.

It operates through a unique setup involving two isolated virtual machines (VMs): Whonix-Gateway, which routes all traffic through Tor, and Whonix-Workstation, where users can safely perform tasks. Therefore, it's used as a "guest" OS that relies on a "host" OS (such as Windows or Linux) to provide the virtual environment in which it operates. Unique features include Kloak, a tool that anonymizes keystrokes, Tirdad for TCP sequence number protection, and sdwdate, which securely updates system time.

Funding for Whonix primarily comes from user donations, paid support services, and grants. The project has evolved through multiple updates, enhancing its compatibility and strengthening its privacy protections, while maintaining a focus on open-source principles and community engagement. If you want to support them with crypto, they can be found in Kivach as whonix/whonix-firewall.

How to Donate With Kivach?

To donate using Kivach, start by ensuring you have an Obyte wallet with funds ready. Then, simply enter the GitHub repository name in Kivach’s search bar, click ‘Donate,’ and choose the amount and cryptocurrency you’d like to give. It’s that easy!

The developers don’t need to know about your donation right away, but the process of withdrawing the funds also requires an Obyte wallet on their side. Therefore, remember to let the recipients know about the donation afterward so they can claim it. Kivach lets you support any GitHub project with crypto, and there are millions to explore. Feel free to browse around or check out our previous guides for more inspiration!