The 9 BEST Linux Distros for Privacy-Focused Users
Here are the top-rated Linux distros you should use for ultimate online security and privacy.
The increasing security breaches and the proliferation of cyberattacks are wreaking havoc in the open-source community. However, the ongoing stress on privacy-focused distros offers some hope for the breaches.
The open-source Linux OSes discussed below combine virtualization tactics, best-in-class tools, and encryption to counter threats. You need to switch to one of these distros to ensure that privacy ranks high in all your activities.
- Linux Kodachi
Linux customized this Debian-based distro to make it function from SD card, portable USB stick, and even a DVD. Additionally, Kodachi’s incorporation of Tor-enabled browsing solutions and pre-installed VPN services provides a safe browsing experience and improves online privacy.
This distro’s DNSCrypt ensures that all activities are filtered through privacy checkpoints by masking the TCP/IP protocol configurations. Besides, it lets you encrypt all your IMs, Emails, and file directories with high-grade cryptographic tools.
It is also impossible to detect Kodachi’s live sessions as the distro leaves no traces in the host’s system. This makes all your desktop activities private, and no one can access your system data without your authorization.
- Qubes OS
This Fedora-based Linux distro runs a virtualized environment to let you access your apps and devices from isolated compartments. Qubes compartmentalization feature is crucial for firewall and server-side network stack management. Additionally, integrating Qubes and Whonix allows Tor availability, creating a perfect security-oriented desktop computing experience.
You can save your keys safely through Qubes OS’s Split GPGS capability. The distro’s use of U2F proxy setup and device isolation strengthens its encryption capabilities, making it a hit with privacy-conscious users.
- Tails
Tails distro is mainly adored for its ability to broaden users’ privacy aspects. Also, Tails is executable from SD cards, USB, and HDD making it one of the highly sought-after Linux distros. You must save all your crucial data in an encrypted folder because the distro deletes all your data immediately you shut down the system. Wiping your data is an added advantage that enables privacy-oriented and fail-proof computing in every use. Besides, Tails’ perfect adaptation to Tor’s nuances places it among the well-recognized privacy-centric Linux distro.
- Kali Linux
Much of the Kali Linux distro’s popularity is attributed to its advanced security engineering. Also, the out-of-the-box functionality helps newcomers quickly catch up. This operating system has enjoyed massive community support and development, paving the way for vast exploration and documentation. One notable feature of the Debian-based distro is the extensive suite of penetration applications and tools.
Most users prefer Kali OS due to the readily available guidelines on meta-packages and customizations. Besides, they are pleased with the Kali NetHunter suite and undercover mode in mobile security testing.
- BlackArch
BlackArch is seen as the closest challenger to Kali’s testing capabilities. This distro is based on Arch Linux boasting a testing suite with around 3000 tools.
You can use the modular packaging abilities to package test solutions and execute them on a target system. Besides, the distro’s XFCE desktop environment makes it easy for novices to navigate. What’s more, the pre-configured window managers make BlackArch an absolute delight to run.
Depending on your purpose, the distro comes in both the Slim and the Full versions. Its supportive community also makes troubleshooting a convenient task.
- Parrot OS
This Debian-based entry is one that we can’t ignore when highlighting a list of security-oriented Linux distros. Just like other counterparts, Parrot OS features numerous cybersecurity applications.
The distro’s system-bundled framework plays a crucial role in digital forensic tasking and reverse engineering. Notably, Parrot OS’s encryption-centric app repository helps it handle security more seriously than its contemporaries. Its sandbox virtual environment also limits all your Linux activity.
Parrot OS’s use of I2P, Tor, and Anonsurf, among other features, provides a security-enabled environment making it one of the most trusted distros for data defense management.
- Septor
Septor distro imbibes the desktop environment and originates from Debian. It offers a secure open-source desktop solution through an accomplished software ecosystem.
Install Septor and have the bundled applications cater to encrypted web services. Other typical Tor applications in this distro include Thunderbird, HexChat, QuiteRSS, OnionShare, and Tor Browser, amongst many others.
Septor is quite similar to Tails, but it differs in installation mediums and desktop interface.
- Whonix
This Debian-based distro has a Kicksecure Security that keeps you within a secure perimeter by letting you operate your system via an array of virtual machines. Whonix’s “Torified” computing environment helps you conceal your personal information and credential from potential attackers.
This Linux distro has a booting setup that beginners, and advanced users alike, find easy to install and operate. If you are unfamiliar with cyber safety practices, Whonix’s keystroke anonymization and boot clock randomization will keep you protected.
- Alpine Linux
Alpine is a Linux distro designed for high-grade protection and anonymous web surfing against advanced malware. This general-purpose live distro is based on BusyBox and musc libc library meaning that it’s an open-source, resource-efficient OS with a stunning footprint.
Also, don’t overlook the distro’s excellent shell scripting, APK, and Package manager capabilities. Alpine offers either XFCE or GNOME as your preferred desktop environment. Notably, Alpine’s cooperation with Docker helps enhance secure OS virtualization.
Use Linux Distros to Enhance Privacy.
With the rise in cyber-attacks and security breaches, it’s crucial to stay alert and only use secure OS distros. More and more individuals and businesses are falling prey to these attacks, and Linux seems to tackle the issue head-on.
The nine distros discussed here form just the tip of the iceberg, as there are more secure distros promising to be better than others. Make your choice.