Wasp OS

About
Wasp OS is a web based operating system that I began writing in the summer of 2008. The idea for a web based operating system came out of the desire to have a completely mobile desktop that did not require a lot (or any) hardware. I decided the solution would be to develop a system that could be hosted on a server, and sync-able to a home PC. Media, documents, etc. could then be easily transferred to and from the server and use from the web. The system could also be used as a central OS for businesses or school to use that allows their employees or students to log on from any location to get work done.

Architecture
Wasp OS is written in PHP and AJAX to maximize compatibility. Core functions are written in PHP and the entire GUI is was built using JavaScript and the jQuery library. Most stand alone PHP applications can run on the system with little to no reverse engineering necessary. Rather than require that a database be present on the server, XML and encrypted text files are used to maintain user information.

The Future
with Google’s release of Chrome OS it has become apparent that the steep competition may be too strong for Wasp OS to succeed on quite the scale I had once dreamed of. None the less, Wasp OS was thought up long before Chrome OS so the project stands as a strong representation of my ability to stay on the cutting edge of where the internet is heading and is a wonderful example of my skill sets. I have every intention of releasing the system anyway as a possible alternative to Chrome OS and still feel it would be a worthy tool for institutions to install locally as an affordable way to have many users and not have to purchase many machines. I plan on integrating some of Google’s cloud to the system to make it more universal and plan on expanding the installable programs to handle a wider array of programming languages.

The Pitch
If you dont want to spend a lot of money on a top of the line laptop, but still want the mobility, consider Wasp OS an option. Sync your home computer to the Wasp OS system, and have it waiting for you wherever you travel. Alternatively, load the system onto a server at your business’s office and have your employees log in from slimmed down terminals throughout the office rather than have each computer be a fully function machine. Cut costs, and maximize productivity by offering your employees the ability to log in from anywhere in the world to get work done.

check out the live demo
disclaimer: still in development and barely in beta, let alone production ready.