CloudReady

For the longest time, the business of operating systems was practically a monopoly. If you wanted something that offered you all the features you needed right out of the box, you were essentially locked in to the Windows or Mac ecosystem. While Linux offered an alternative with a high level of customization, getting the most out of this operating system required developing a complex understanding of working within the command line interface. The rising popularity of netbooks proved that the philosophy of complexity was perhaps overrated. These simple platforms offered a speedy and cloud-based alternative to traditional computing that ditched bulky operating systems and high-end hardware in favor of focusing on the functions most people used in their everyday life. CloudReady allows you to get a zippy and functional operating system on your computer regardless of its inferior specs, and it accomplishes this through the use of cloud computing technology. Built off of Google's Chromium OS, CloudReady doesn't work like a traditional operating system. This open source software uses the Chrome browser as its basis, relying on your internet connection to power the functions of your computer. The result is an operating system that can run even on aging and disused computers. CloudReady has focused their marketing on larger organizations like charities, schools, and businesses who are looking to put multiple computers into action without having to spend a fortune, but it can be just as useful a tool when you're looking to get some use out of your aging laptop or desktop. Compatibility is key here, and CloudReady can work generally well on most business-level computers released in the last decade or so. Installation is a breeze, and it can be handled with a simple USB stick. The options to use Chromium as your sole operating system or to run it parallel in a double boot system are both feasible. Accommodatin the fact that CloudReady is built for larger organizations is its handy management features. You can connect all of your devices easily in the cloud, making the job of your IT team far easier. Whether you're running a Mac, a traditional PC, or a Chromebook, they'll all run the same and integrate neatly with your internal network. All administration can be handled through a single simple but effective Google Admin console. While the simple structure of CloudReady's OS may limit your options for customizing your experience and downloading new software, it's ideal for users who are looking to use their machine for specific purposes. CloudReady focuses the user's attention exclusively on the tools they need for the job, with Google's suite of cloud-based products like Drive, Gmail, and Docs centered directly in the ecosystem. And since security features are embedded directly into the OS rather than handled through a second proprietary piece of software, you can rest easy that your information will be secure.