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WebVM Project Description

What is the project about?

WebVM is a server-less Linux virtual machine that runs entirely within a web browser. It allows users to execute x86 binaries in a sandboxed environment without any server-side components.

What problem does it solve?

WebVM solves the problem of needing a server or a local virtual machine setup to run Linux applications and development environments. It provides a convenient, secure, and readily accessible way to use Linux tools directly in the browser. It eliminates the need for complex installations or configurations.

What are the features of the project?

  • Server-less Operation: Runs completely client-side in the browser using HTML5 and WebAssembly.
  • Linux ABI Compatibility: Designed to be compatible with the Linux Application Binary Interface.
  • Unmodified Debian Distribution: Runs a standard Debian distribution with many native development toolchains.
  • x86 Binary Execution: Enables execution of x86 binaries via the CheerpX virtualization engine.
  • Sandboxed Environment: Provides a safe and isolated environment for running applications.
  • Networking Support: Integrates with Tailscale to provide networking capabilities (TCP/UDP) via WebSockets.
  • Customizable: Users can fork, deploy, and customize the environment using Dockerfiles.
  • Local Deployment: Supports local deployment for development and testing.
  • Github Pages Deployment.

What are the technologies used in the project?

  • HTML5/WebAssembly: Core technologies for running the VM in the browser.
  • CheerpX: Virtualization engine that includes an x86-to-WebAssembly JIT compiler, virtual file system, and Linux syscall emulator.
  • Tailscale: VPN service used for networking.
  • xterm.js: Web-based terminal emulator.
  • lwIP: TCP/IP stack.
  • Docker: Used for creating and customizing the Linux environment.
  • Node.js/npm: For building and managing the project.
  • NGINX: Used as a local web server for development.
  • Ext2: Filesystem image.

What are the benefits of the project?

  • Accessibility: Access a Linux environment from any modern web browser.
  • Portability: No need for local installations or specific operating systems.
  • Security: Sandboxed execution protects the host system.
  • Convenience: Easy to set up and use, with no server-side management required.
  • Customizability: Tailor the environment to specific needs using Dockerfiles.
  • Cost-Effective: Eliminates the need for server infrastructure.

What are the use cases of the project?

  • Software Development: Running Linux development tools and environments in the browser.
  • Testing and Experimentation: Trying out Linux applications and commands without affecting the host system.
  • Education: Providing a readily available Linux environment for learning and teaching.
  • Legacy Application Access: Running older x86 applications in a modern browser.
  • Secure Application Execution: Running potentially untrusted binaries in a sandboxed environment.
  • Remote Access: Accessing a Linux environment from anywhere with a web browser.
webvm screenshot