Introduction

In an age where personal privacy and security is a growing concern, Tails, an acronym for The Amnesic Incognito Live System, stands as a bastion. Tails is a live operating system that you can start on almost any computer from a USB stick or a DVD. It aims to preserve your privacy and anonymity by helping you use the internet anonymously and circumvent censorship. 

This article aims to give you an introduction to the Tails operating system, its features, and its usage.

Also Read, mv command in linux

Key Features of Tails

Tails is a Linux-based operating system preconfigured with several applications focused on privacy and security. These include a web browser routed through Tor (The Onion Router), a suite of encryption tools, secure deletion tools, and more.

Tails leaves no trace on the computer it is run from as it operates entirely in RAM and does not use the hard disk. Once shut down, all information is wiped clean, hence the term "Amnesic" in its name.

Tails' Architecture

Tails is built on top of Debian, a robust and stable Linux distribution. Tails uses the Tor network to route internet traffic and protect users' privacy. Its architecture is designed to maintain user privacy and security against outside intrusion.

Here's a simplified view of Tails' architecture:

• Layer Description
   
• Hardware Physical computer on which Tails runs
   
• Tails OS The amnesic operating system
   
• Applications Tools and software running on Tails, all privacy-centric

Using Tails

To use Tails, you boot your computer from a USB stick or DVD with the Tails system loaded on it. Once Tails is running, you can access various applications like the Tor browser, which is preconfigured to protect your privacy.

Here is an example of a command-line operation in Tails. This command deletes a file named "example.txt" securely:

shred -u example.txt

The shred -u command overwrites the file with random data before deleting it, ensuring the file cannot be recovered.

Also read - AMD vs Intel

Also read - features of operating system

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install Tails on my computer's hard disk?

No, Tails is designed to be a live system running from a USB or DVD. It doesn't support installation on a hard disk.

What applications come pre-installed in Tails?

Tails includes a variety of applications for secure communication, browsing, and file management. This includes the Tor Browser, Thunderbird email client with Enigmail for email encryption, KeePassXC password manager, and more.

Can I use Tails with Wi-Fi?

Yes, Tails can connect to the internet using wired or wireless connections. However, remember that some wireless network interfaces are not supported.