Tip: Convert That Old Computer to a Safer Internet Machine

Pre Windows 7 Machines are NOT SAFE for Surfing the Internet

Neverware's Cloud Ready is a Safer Alternative

If there's anything the recent ransomware attacks proved, older computers are just NOT the best choice for surfing the Internet.  Both Microsoft and Apple pushed users to upgrade their Operating Systems, due to security vulnerabilities that were currently being exploited.  Folks running Windows 10, and those who keep their Windows 7 systems updated had no worries.  The ransomware could NOT attack their systems.  However those running Windows XP and/or Vista were extremely vulnerable.  In fact, most viruses are designed to attack older operating systems and those that are not kept patched.

However, most older systems are unable to handle Windows 10.  Many users are stuck with 7, XP, or even (shudder) Vista, as their budgets do not allow for new machines.  Many people have older systems lying around they'd like to re-purpose for children or as spares.  Do you have to abandon all hopes of surfing safely with an older machine?  Heck no!  Neverware is here with a solution. It can convert that old computer into a much safer, Internet Machine.  Neverware will help you convert that dangerous old laptop into a Chromebook.

What is a Chromebook?

In a nutshell, a Chromebook is an interface to access the Internet.  Rather than depending on local storage and local applications, these things all live in the Cloud.  You basically boot up to a Chrome Browser screen.  You log into a Google account to access all of your information.  It is all stored remotely, in your google account.

Instead of using Office applications, with a Chromebook you use Google Docs, Google Sheets, etc.  You can store some information locally, but the majority of your data is stored in the cloud.  Rather than using local programs to edit photos, documents, etc., you use web-based applications.

Because most everything is done and stored remotely, Chromebooks are not as vulnerable to malware and viruses. Because things do not run locally on your machine, they do not persist after reboot. Things don't actually "install" on a Chromebook, so viruses cannot infect things.  If the OS itself gets compromised, you just make another Chromium drive and reinstall, without losing anything.

You can do Facebook, Skype, e-mail, Twitter, Instagram, etc. on a Chromebook.  You can watch Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime.  You can word process and do spreadsheets.  You can participate in online classes, and do anything else you'd typically do through a web browser.  The only thing they're not great for is gaming.  However, if you only play online (or Facebook) games, you'll do fine with a Chromebook.  A lot of men call them "Porn Machines," as they can visit all those sketchy sites to their heart's content without fear of compromising their whole systems.

The downsides of a Chromebook?  Well, they're of little utility when you have no internet.  Because they ARE basically just a way to get online, you kind of need to BE online to use them most effectively.  No network access? You're better off with a tablet or a traditional PC.

What is Neverware?

Neverware is a free and easy way for a home user to convert an old machine into a Faux Chromebook.  Chromebooks run Chrome OS, which is based on Chromium OS, Free Open Source Software (FOSS). Neverware is a variant of Chromium OS, meant to mimic a Chromebook.

For all intents and purposes, a computer running Neverware IS a Chromebook.  It looks and operates just like one.

Neverware calls their Chromium OS "Cloud Ready."  Cloud Ready runs great on most older machines.  In fact, if I get an XP or Vista in to be refurbished and donated, I convert it over to Neverware before finding it a new home.  XP and Vista are just NOT safe.  I cannot in good conscience re-home a machine running XP or Vista.  Cloud Ready makes these machines safe for those who cannot afford new PCs.

What Do I need to Run Neverware?

You must have a working PC, and you MUST be able to get into the BIOS, Set-up, or boot menu.  Preferably, you still have a PC that is working and can connect to the Internet long enough to download the installer.  If you do not, you will need to ask someone to create the installer for you. Of course, you'll need an empty USB "thumb" drive. Additionally, you will need to have internet access when you are ready to install and configure Cloud Ready.

Neverware has a list of old machines "certified" to work with Cloud Ready.  They say:

Every computer is different. Some don’t support dual-boot, and many require specific steps to enable installation.  Please check that your computer model is on our Certified Models List.  Click on a model for specific notes and information.  If your model is not on the list, there is a good chance that it will still work with CloudReady.  However, uncertified models may have unstable behavior, and our support team cannot assist you with troubleshooting.

You can find the "Certified Models List" at https://guide.neverware.com/supported-devices/.

I have successfully installed Cloud Ready on machines with less than 2 gb of Ram and that are not included on their list.  I have also successfully run Neverware off USB on non-certified systems.

How Do I Know if I Need the 32 or 64 Bit Version?

The older the machine, and the lower its specs, the more likely the 32 bit version will work.  If your machine is not on the certified list, and you do not have a working machine from which you can create installers, just start with the 32 bit version.  If you DO have time and a working PC, try the 64 bit version first.  If that doesn't work, try the 32 bit.  Machines with less RAM will work better with the 32 bit version; most web based applications are still 32 bits themselves.  

Can I Try Before I Buy?

Yes.  You can run Neverware off of a USB drive.  You can do that for as long as you like.  In fact, you can keep booting into windows every time you want to game, word process, and stay offline.  You can then plug in your handy USB drive when you want to go online and boot into Cloud Ready.  

In fact, I often suggest that folks try Cloud Ready BEFORE they convert their systems.  You can supposedly configure Cloud Ready to dual boot when you install, but I have not had a lot of luck with that.  I suggest either biting the bullet and installing Cloud Ready as the main OS, or just running it off of a USB drive ad infinitum..   

OK...I'm Ready; How Do I Install Neverware?

Neverware has a detailed Install Guide at https://guide.neverware.com/critical-requirements/.  I suggest you follow along as you prepare your machine for Neverware. (You can print it or open it on your mobile device, if available.)

What you need:

• 20 minutes for USB installer creation.
• To create the USB installer, a PC, Mac or Chromebook running the Chrome browser.
• An 8GB or 16GB USB stick.

Note: Sandisk brand USB devices may not function correctly, and are not recommended.

You will also need:

• The Chrome Browser
• the Chromebook Recovery Utility
  You need to click this link from within Chrome; it will install the extension

1. Open Your Chrome Browser, install the extension, then download the Cloud Ready Software.

• You can download the Home Edition at https://www.neverware.com/freedownload/

2. Build the Installer

• Follow the instructions at https://guide.neverware.com/build-installer/working-windows/ to build the Installer
• Basically, you'll unzip the file you just downloaded, launch the Chromebook Recovery Utility, and follow its prompts to "build" using a "local image."

3. Run Cloud Ready

• Plug your USB in to a port;
• Reboot into setup, BIOS, or Boot Menu
• Configure your PC to boot from USB
• Follow the on-screen prompts.

If you have any difficulties, follow the guide at https://guide.neverware.com/install-cloudready/

Again, I have NOT had a lot of success with dual boot installations.  Also, once you have booted into Cloud Ready, you do NOT need to install; you can merely begin using Neverware from the running  instance.

I've Booted Into Cloud Ready...How Do I Begin?

You will be greeted with a screen that looks like this.  Click on "Network" to select your network connection.  Your menu is located in the bottom right corner of the screen, by the clock.  This is how you access the "Install" menu, and/or sign into Google once installed.

You will need a Google account to make the most of Cloud Ready.  If you have an android phone, you should already have a Google Account.  You can use the same one with Cloud Ready.

Is Cloud Ready Really Free? What Is the Catch?

Cloud Ready is really free for home users.  They make their money selling Enterprise and Educational packages.  Of course, Support is self-service for free editions.  You can find most of the help you need in their forums. If you want e-mail or phone support, you'll need to upgrade to a paid version.

Is Neverware Easy to Use?

If you are comfortable using the Chrome Browser, you will find Cloud Ready easy.  Even if you have never used Chrome, you will find it an easy transition from Firefox, Safari, Edge, or Explorer.  If you can use a Web Browser, you can use Neverware.

And of course, if you are on the Florida Suncoast, Laurel Nevans' Computer Services will be happy to help.  We can help you install Neverware, as well as train you to use it.

Is It Safe to Access the Internet on a Machine Running XP or Vista?

No, it is not.  Surfing the web using XP or Vista is the equivalent of walking into a heroin den and asking a homeless junkie if you can borrow a needle, then following that up with unprotected sex.  You are asking for nasties!  

I Can't Get Cloud Ready to Run; Are There Alternatives?

If Cloud Ready will not work on your machine, I suggest Puppy Linux as an alternative.  Puppy will run off of a USB drive or a CD.  However, it will be MUCH more difficult for a Mac or PC user to transfer to a pure Linux environment.  Puppy is better than continuing to use XP or Vista.  However, most users will find switching to Cloud Ready easier.

Comments:

What are your thoughts?  Are you still running XP or Vista?  Do you have old machines around you'd like to put to use?  Could you use a dedicated Internet Machine?  Do you have any questions about Neverware?  Hit us up in the comments or on Facebook and let us know!