Can I try Linux online without installing it?

Yes. Choose an available distribution, release, and desktop, then open its launch page. OpenFactory starts a remote virtual machine and renders it in your browser, so you do not need to repartition your computer, create a USB installer, or install local virtualization software.

Do files and settings persist between browser VM sessions?

No. Each launch uses a fresh overlay over an immutable source image. Files and settings work normally during the session, but the machine state is discarded when the session ends. Each visitor gets a separate environment and never inherits changes made by another visitor.

Does every catalog release have an exact launch image?

No. Use the availability filter and the target page to confirm what can launch. Some historical catalog entries can use a current or compatible launch source. If an exact release matters for testing, verify the reported version inside the guest before relying on the result.

Can I customize a distro after trying it?

For supported build targets, yes. OpenFactory provides a separate builder where you can select packages, services, users, and security settings, test the generated image in a browser VM, and download the completed artifact. Build and output options vary by target.

Try Linux Distributions Online

Browse Linux distributions, exact releases, and desktops, then launch an available target as a browser virtual machine. No local install required.

92 distribution families1247 available targetsFresh, private session overlay

1369 results

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How it works

From a browser test to your own Linux image

1. Choose a target
Pick a distribution family, release, desktop, and an available launch target.
2. Launch a clean VM
Use the real desktop in your browser. The temporary machine is discarded when the session ends.
3. Build what you need
For supported targets, select packages and settings, test the result, and download the built image.

Questions about trying Linux online

Can I try Linux online without installing it?: Yes. Choose an available distribution, release, and desktop, then open its launch page. OpenFactory starts a remote virtual machine and renders it in your browser, so you do not need to repartition your computer, create a USB installer, or install local virtualization software.
Do files and settings persist between browser VM sessions?: No. Each launch uses a fresh overlay over an immutable source image. Files and settings work normally during the session, but the machine state is discarded when the session ends. Each visitor gets a separate environment and never inherits changes made by another visitor.
Does every catalog release have an exact launch image?: No. Use the availability filter and the target page to confirm what can launch. Some historical catalog entries can use a current or compatible launch source. If an exact release matters for testing, verify the reported version inside the guest before relying on the result.
Can I customize a distro after trying it?: For supported build targets, yes. OpenFactory provides a separate builder where you can select packages, services, users, and security settings, test the generated image in a browser VM, and download the completed artifact. Build and output options vary by target.

Try Linux Distributions Online

From a browser test to your own Linux image

1. Choose a target

2. Launch a clean VM

3. Build what you need

Questions about trying Linux online