WebVM – Run a full Linux environment in the browser via WebAssembly

Summary: WebVM is a serverless virtual Linux machine running an unmodified Debian distribution entirely in the browser using WebAssembly. It leverages CheerpX, an x86-to-WebAssembly virtualization engine, to execute Linux binaries safely and sandboxed without backend servers. WebVM supports networking through Tailscale VPN integration.

What it does

WebVM runs a complete Linux environment client-side by using CheerpX’s x86-to-WebAssembly JIT compiler, virtual block-based file system, and Linux syscall emulator. It enables Linux ABI compatibility and network access within the browser.

Who it's for

It is designed for users needing a full Linux environment in-browser without registration or backend provisioning, suitable for FOSS and personal projects.

Why it matters

WebVM solves the problem of running unmodified Linux binaries securely and serverlessly in browsers, bridging the fidelity gap in WebAssembly virtualization.