MeghaOS: A Framework for Scalable, Interoperable Cloud Based Operating System

Cloud computing is becoming relevant due to increase in speed of Internet and reduction in its access cost. Desktop computing demands expensive hardware and software suits which become obsolete too often. Ownership of Personal Computers has always remained low in developing countries mainly due to its prohibitive cost. Alternate models of Computer usage like Public-Access Kiosks and low cost Laptops have been tried with limited success. Issues like security and privacy are major concerns in pubic computing. Laptops and other mobile devices lack required hardware support to run computing intensive applications. Increased penetration of Internet and mobile phones are providing new opportunities to bring computing closer to people. Cloud based Operating Systems are an effort in this direction. The present system, named MeghaOS, provides a framework for Desktop-like Operating System (OS) on a Web Browser. The Cloud becomes a metaphor for Operating System services accessed though Internet. Unlike traditional Operating System, MeghaOS can be accessed on any device having just a Web Browser. Since applications developed using this framework will be cached in Client’s machine, network utility will be low. Since data and applications are hosted remotely users can use them without transferring data into local device. MeghaOS provides scalable, multi-device compatible, browser accessible framework for Cloud based Operating System demonstrating next generation computing paradigm.