Unlike typical OS (i.e. the many varieties of Windows, Linux, and Mac), web-based OSs are hosted on a remote server and utilize existing Internet technologies. Like a real OS, you can run applications and save files, but instead of it being run on your own computer, they are run on the remote server.
What's cool about G.ho.st is that it is a completely free service. All registered users get the ability to customize and use a desktop of their own from any computer that has an Internet connection. There are also applications included with G.ho.st, such as a word & excel-like app, calculator, instant messenger, and so on. They also get 5 GB of storage space as well. Best of all, you don't have to install anything! Just login from your web browser and you're good to go!
I took some screenshots while testing it out earlier today:
G.ho.st VC - The G.ho.st Desktop, very similar to Vista's desktop layout.
G.ho.st VC - G.ho.st's "Go!" menu.
G.ho.st VC - G.ho.st's "Go!" menu. A lot of basic applications are available, like the Calculator or Zoho Writer (Word-like) or Zoho Sheets (Excel-like)
G.ho.st VC - You can even change your desktop background, just like any real OS!
Although G.ho.st VC is still in alpha testing, I can definitely see myself using this (or something like it) in the near future, as it would be great to have access to on the go, whenever I don't have access to my own computer or laptop.
To register and test out G.ho.st VC, their website URL is: http://g.ho.st/
To learn more about the G.ho.st project, you can check out their Wiki entry here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G.ho.st
