This guide collects Linux kernel and userland settings for improving security and usability, targeting Arch Linux and potentially other distributions.
Qubes
Qubes OS is a free, open-source operating system for personal computers that uses compartmentalization as a security approach.
About Qubes
Qubes OS is a free and open-source operating system for personal computers that separates activities into isolated compartments using the Xen hypervisor. It supports using more than one Linux distribution on the same machine and running Windows programs alongside Linux, and integrates Whonix for use with the Tor network.
The project describes the system as reasonably secure. Quoted press coverage on the site notes that it takes effort to use.
Key features
- Isolates tasks in separate compartments via Xen hypervisor
- Runs more than one Linux distribution on one computer
- Runs Windows software alongside Linux for work needs
- Integrates Whonix for Internet use over Tor network
Best for: Users who want to keep different activities isolated on a personal computer.
Good for
- Uses Xen hypervisor isolation also used to separate hosted services
- Works with multiple Linux distributions and Windows programs on one machine
- Includes Whonix integration for Tor network use
Watch out for
- Described as reasonably secure rather than fully secure
- Quoted coverage indicates it takes effort to use
Qubes at a glance
- Website
- qubes-os.org
- Category
- Privacy & Security › Desktop & OS Privacy
- Type
- Website
- Pricing
- Not confirmed. Check the site
- Platforms
- Web
- Open source
- Not stated
- Language
- English
- Last checked
- Oct 5, 2026 · Online when checked
- Listed
- Oct 5, 2026
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Qubes FAQ
What does Qubes use to isolate activities?
It uses the Xen hypervisor to create separate compartments on a personal computer.
Can I use more than one operating system with Qubes?
Yes, the site states you can use multiple Linux distributions and still run a Windows program for work.
How does Qubes relate to Tor?
Whonix is integrated into Qubes for using the Internet over the Tor network.
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