Tails
The amnesic incognito live system for privacy
What is Tails?
Tails is a live operating system that can be started on almost any computer from a USB stick or a DVD. It is based on Debian, focusing on privacy and anonymity.
Designed for privacy enthusiasts, Tails routes internet connections through the Tor network to conceal user identity. Ideal for those needing secure communications.
Tails aims to preserve your privacy and anonymity by using state-of-the-art cryptography tools and leaving no digital trace unless explicitly requested.
Key features
Privacy by Design
Tails routes internet traffic through the Tor network, ensuring user anonymity and protecting against surveillance.
Live System
Runs entirely from a USB stick or DVD, leaving no trace on the computer used.
Built-in Encryption
Includes tools like LUKS for disk encryption and GnuPG for securing communications.
Censorship Circumvention
Bypass internet censorship and access blocked websites using pre-configured Tor.
Secure Applications
Comes with pre-installed applications configured for security like Tor Browser and KeePassXC.
Amnesic
Does not use the computer's hard disk, ensuring no data is left behind after shutdown.
System requirements
| Minimum | Recommended | |
|---|---|---|
| RAM | 2 GB | 4 GB+ |
| Storage | 8 GB USB stick | 16 GB+ USB stick |
| Display | 1024×768 | 1920×1080 |
| Boot | UEFI or Legacy BIOS | |
Compare Tails
See how Tails stacks up against other popular distros.
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FAQ
Is Tails free to use?
Yes, Tails is free and open-source software, available under the GNU General Public License.
Is Tails suitable for beginners?
While Tails is designed with simplicity in mind, it is more suited for users with an understanding of privacy and security concerns.
Can I try Tails without installing it?
Yes, Tails is a live OS that runs from a USB stick or DVD, meaning you can try it without installing.
How often is Tails updated?
Tails follows a point release cycle, typically updating every 6 months with security patches and new features.
What software can I use with Tails?
Tails comes with secure applications like Tor Browser, LibreOffice, and GIMP, and supports Debian packages.
How does Tails protect my privacy?
Tails protects privacy by routing web traffic through Tor and ensuring no data is saved to the device after shutdown.
Ready to try Tails?
Download the ISO and create a bootable USB to test it out.