I built a browser-based desktop environment (IP Linux) with React, TypeScript and Vite

I built a browser-based desktop environment (IP Linux) with React, TypeScript and Vite

I have been working on a project called IP Linux: a browser-based desktop environment that runs as a static web app.

• Live site: https://ip-os-linux.vercel.app/
• GitHub Repository: https://github.com/ikerperez12/IP-OS-LINUX

It is not a real Linux distribution, and it does not run native binaries. The idea is different: I wanted to explore how far a polished desktop-like experience can go inside a normal browser tab.

The result is a small web OS-style environment with:

• A splash / entry screen
• A desktop with icons, folders, and widgets
• A top panel with system controls
• A dock and app launcher
• Resizable and draggable windows
• Virtual workspaces
• Snap assist
• A global search / Spotlight-style command palette
• Local-first apps (Files, Terminal, settings, player)
• Reactive wallpapers
• Glass UI and visual effects

Why I built it

Most web demos are landing pages, dashboards, or small single-purpose apps. I wanted to build something that feels more like an environment.

I was interested in questions like:

• Can a web app feel physical and desktop-like?
• How should windows behave inside a browser viewport?
• How far can local-first storage go before a backend is actually needed?
• How do you organize many small apps without making the UI messy?

IP Linux became a way to test all of that in one project.

The app includes a catalog of built-in apps and tools: Files, Terminal, Browser, Settings, App Store, Music Player, Matrix Rain, games, developer tools, productivity apps, and visual utilities. The virtual file system and user preferences are stored locally in the visitor’s browser with IndexedDB/localStorage. There is no backend, no account system, and no required environment variables for the public release.

Would love to get feedback on the interaction design, responsiveness, or features!