Best Sites to Run Linux in Browser | Online Linux Terminal

This guide is designed to introduce you to the Best Sites to Run Linux in Browser. If you’re a Linux enthusiast but don’t want to commit to a full installation or deal with the overhead of a virtual machine, running Linux within your web browser offers a convenient alternative.

There are several websites that provide access to a Linux distribution directly from your browser, allowing you to experiment, learn, and even work on Linux systems without the need for local installation.

Let’s explore some of the Best Sites to Run Linux in Browser and see how you can leverage them to enhance your Linux skills.

Number 1 – CoCalc Online Linux Terminal

CoCalc Linux terminal is a powerful platform with a host of features for running commands, managing files, and executing programs. It’s a standout choice for those seeking to hone their Linux proficiency.

To access the CoCalc Linux terminal, you’ll need to sign up for a free account and select Linux as your environment. Linux commands are the cornerstone of system management, and CoCalc provides a seamless way to use them. Simply open the Linux Terminal from within CoCalc and start entering your commands.

CoCalc Linux Terminal boasts impressive features, including:

• A fully functional Linux environment
• Collaborative features for shared coding
• Support for various programming languages

With Linux Terminal Online via CoCalc, users can conveniently access their Linux machines, run scripts, and perform other tasks remotely, all within a web browser.

Number 2 – JSLinux – Run Linux in a Web Browser

JSLinux is a Linux emulator written in JavaScript, allowing you to run Linux directly in your web browser. It offers a range of operating systems, including Alpine Linux, FreeDOS, and Fedora 33.

JSLinux provides a straightforward Linux terminal for online practice. Signing up for an account is optional.

Number 3 – Webminal Free GNU/Linux Online Terminal and Programming IDE

Webminal stands out as an excellent resource for running Linux online. With Webminal, you can practice Linux Commands and bash scripts, as well as learn programming languages such as Python, C, Ruby, Java, and Rust.

It also features MySQL support, enabling you to create tables and execute queries. Simply create an account and log in to access Webminal.

Number 4 – Copy.sh – Run the Linux Emulator in a Browser

Copy.sh is another online platform that allows you to run Linux and other operating systems directly in your web browser. Visit the official site and select the "Virtual x86" option. You’ll be presented with a list of operating systems to choose from. Click on your desired OS to access the terminal screen.

Number 5 – Codeanywhere Online Code Editor

Codeanywhere is a Cloud IDE that enables you to deploy a development environment and provides the tools to code, learn, build, and collaborate on projects.

Sign up for an account on the official site to run a free Linux virtual machine. Free and paid account options are available.

Number 6 – JS/UIX Terminal

JS/UIX is a JavaScript-based terminal that includes a shell, a virtual machine, a virtual file system, keyboard mapping, a screen, and support for ASCII character sets. No account or plugins are needed to access JS/UIX.

Conclusion

You are now acquainted with several options for Best Sites to Run Linux in Browser. If you are looking for a simple method to practice Linux and improve your Linux command skills, you can leverage any of these sites.

Which one will you choose? Do you have any other suggestions? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Alternative Solutions for Running Linux Without Installation

While the above sites provide convenient ways to access Linux in your browser, there are other methods to achieve a similar outcome without a full installation or a dedicated VM. Here are two alternative solutions:

1. Docker Containers with Web-Based Terminals

Docker allows you to run applications in isolated containers. You can run a Linux distribution within a Docker container and access it through a web-based terminal. This approach offers more control over the environment than the websites listed above and can be easily customized.

• Explanation: A Docker container packages a Linux distribution (like Ubuntu or Alpine) along with all its dependencies. A web-based terminal, such as ttyd or gotty, allows you to connect to the container’s shell from your web browser. This provides a fully functional Linux environment without the overhead of a VM.

• Example:

  First, install Docker on your system. Then, use the following Docker command to run an Ubuntu container with ttyd:

  docker run -d -p 7681:7681 --name ubuntu-terminal ubuntu /bin/bash -c "apt-get update && apt-get install -y ttyd && ttyd -i user"

  This command does the following:

  • docker run -d: Runs the container in detached mode (in the background).
  • -p 7681:7681: Maps port 7681 on your host machine to port 7681 inside the container (where ttyd will be running).
  • --name ubuntu-terminal: Assigns a name to the container.
  • ubuntu: Specifies the Ubuntu image to use.
  • /bin/bash -c "...": Executes a command inside the container.
  • apt-get update && apt-get install -y ttyd: Updates the package list and installs ttyd.
  • ttyd -i user: Starts ttyd and creates a user session.

  After running this command, you can access the Ubuntu terminal in your browser by navigating to http://localhost:7681. You may need to create the user account using adduser user within the container after it’s started.

2. WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux)

If you’re on Windows 10 or later, WSL allows you to run a Linux environment directly on Windows without needing a virtual machine.

• Explanation: WSL integrates a real Linux kernel into the Windows operating system. You can install various Linux distributions from the Microsoft Store and run them alongside your Windows applications. While not technically "in the browser," it provides a very lightweight and seamless Linux experience. You can then use a terminal emulator like Windows Terminal to access your Linux environment.

• Example:

  1. Enable WSL: Open PowerShell as Administrator and run:

     Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName Microsoft-Windows-Subsystem-Linux

     You might need to restart your computer.

  2. Install a Linux distribution: Open the Microsoft Store and search for your desired Linux distribution (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, Kali Linux). Install it.
  3. Launch the distribution: Find the installed distribution in your Start menu and launch it. It will prompt you to create a user account and password.
  4. Access the terminal: You can now access the linux terminal using the installed distribution or via Windows Terminal.

These alternative solutions offer greater flexibility and control compared to the browser-based options, although they require a bit more setup.