A Guide to Purism: 10 Things to Know

1. What is Purism?

Purism is a philosophy and movement that promotes the idea of ethical and privacy-focused technology. It aims to provide users with devices, software, and services that respect their rights, privacy, and security. Emphasizing the importance of open-source software, user control, and avoiding proprietary systems, Purism advocates for a more transparent and secure digital environment. By advocating for privacy-centric alternatives, Purism seeks to challenge the current tech landscape dominated by companies that profit from collecting and monetizing user data.

2. Purism Hardware

One of the key aspects of Purism’s philosophy is producing hardware that respects the user’s privacy and security. Purism’s line of laptops, such as the Librem series, come with hardware kill switches for camera, microphone, and wireless radios, providing users with complete control over their device’s functionalities. These laptops are also equipped with open-source firmware and operating systems, ensuring transparency and minimizing the risk of backdoors or other vulnerabilities.

3. PureOS: Privacy-Focused Operating System

PureOS is Purism’s privacy-focused operating system based on Debian GNU/Linux. It is designed to prioritize user privacy, security, and freedom, offering a platform that respects fundamental ethical principles. PureOS provides users with a wide range of privacy-oriented tools, end-to-end encryption, and regular software updates to stay ahead in the quest for enhanced user safety.

4. Librem Phone: A Privacy-First Mobile Experience

The Librem Phone, offered by Purism, is a privacy-first mobile device designed to prioritize user privacy and security. The Librem Phone runs on PureOS and offers features like hardware kill switches for cameras, cellular baseband, and Wi-Fi radio, ensuring personal control over the device’s functions. It also supports decentralized communication protocols, like the Matrix messaging protocol, helping users break free from centralized alternatives often susceptible to data breaches.

5. Ethical Principles

Purism strongly upholds ethical principles focusing on users’ rights and freedoms. They aim to challenge the increasing surveillance and data monetization practices of tech giants, ensuring people’s privacy and security are safeguarded. This includes advocating for open-source software, respecting user autonomy and control, practicing transparent and accountable manufacturing, and supporting digital rights initiatives. By adhering to ethical principles, Purism aims to inspire a shift towards a more sustainable and privacy-respecting technology ecosystem.

6. Trust and Transparency

Trust and transparency are at the core of Purism’s philosophy. Purism takes pride in providing users with complete visibility into the hardware and software that power their devices. They actively involve the community in their decision-making processes, allowing users to participate in shaping the future of their products. This open approach instills trust and helps ensure that Purism is held accountable to its mission of delivering ethical and privacy-focused technology.

7. Community and Collaboration

Purism values a strong sense of community and collaboration. They actively involve their user base and enthusiasts in their initiatives, seeking feedback, ideas, and support. The Purism community engages through forums, open-source contributions, and regular updates on progress. By fostering community participation, Purism encourages collective efforts towards creating a more privacy-conscious and user-centric digital ecosystem.

8. Regulatory Compliance and Security

Purism is committed to maintaining regulatory compliance and ensuring stringent security measures. They take user data protection seriously and align their practices with privacy and security standards, like the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). By designing hardware and software that prioritize security without compromising usability, Purism aims to create a safer digital environment for all its users.

9. Purism Services

In addition to hardware and software, Purism also offers various services that align with their principles. These services include Librem One, a decentralized and privacy-focused suite of communication tools, and PureBoot for secure booting. By expanding their offerings beyond devices, Purism provides users with comprehensive solutions that extend their commitment to privacy and security.

10. Getting Involved

If you align with Purism’s mission to champion privacy, security, and freedom, there are several ways to get involved. You can contribute to open-source projects, participate in forums and discussions, support privacy-centered initiatives, and provide feedback on existing products. By actively engaging with Purism’s community, you can play an instrumental role in shaping the future of ethical technology.

Useful Links:

– Purism Official Website: https://puri.sm/
– PureOS: https://pureos.net/
– Librem Laptops: https://puri.sm/products/
– Librem Phones: https://puri.sm/products/librem-5/
– Purism Services: https://librem.one/