VollaOS basic knowledge

Everything You Need to Know About VollaOS as a Degoogled Mobile Operating System

Welcome to a comprehensive overview of VollaOS, a unique smartphone operating system that operates without Google services. A “degoogled” operating system means it contains no Google apps or services, which often collect personal data. VollaOS was designed to protect your privacy and data security. This article explains step by step why VollaOS is a good choice, what benefits it offers, its limitations for users unwilling to learn, and how it becomes even more secure with the security mode and hide.me VPN. Possible mistakes users might make and other important considerations are also discussed.

What Are the Benefits of VollaOS as a Degoogled Operating System?

VollaOS is a smartphone operating system based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP). This means it uses Android’s open-source foundation but removes everything related to Google. Here are the key benefits of VollaOS, explained simply:

• No Google on Your Device: Many smartphones come with pre-installed Google apps like Gmail, Google Maps, or the Play Store. These apps often collect data about you, such as your location or the websites you visit. VollaOS does not include these apps, so Google cannot collect data from your device.
• No Account Requirement: Most smartphones require a Google account to fully use the device. With VollaOS, you don’t need an account—neither from Google nor other providers. This makes you more anonymous, as fewer data points are linked to your identity.
• Data Stays on the Device: Data is not sent to the cloud, making it more secure. This means users are solely responsible for their data and its backup.
• Privacy-Friendly Apps: VollaOS replaces standard apps like the phone or calendar app with open-source alternatives. “Open source” means the code is publicly available and can be reviewed by experts to ensure no data is secretly collected.
• Easy to Use: VollaOS has a clear interface with a “springboard” (a type of home screen), a quick menu for frequently used functions, and a classic app overview.
• Alternative App Stores: Instead of the Google Play Store, you can install apps from F-Droid (a store for open-source apps) or the Aurora Store (an anonymous access point to the Play Store). This gives you access to many apps without using Google directly.
• Optional microG: Some apps require Google services to function (e.g., push notifications for messengers). VollaOS offers “microG,” an open-source alternative to Google services that collects less data and can be activated optionally.
• Two Operating Systems to Choose From: With the multi-boot function, you can install Ubuntu Touch alongside VollaOS, another privacy-friendly operating system. This gives you even more freedom to use your smartphone as you wish.

These benefits make VollaOS particularly appealing for people who want to protect their data and have more control over their smartphone while being aware of the full responsibility for their data.

How Does a Degoogled Operating System Like VollaOS Protect Your Privacy?

A degoogled operating system like VollaOS helps you protect your personal data. Here, we explain why this is important and how VollaOS achieves it:

• No Google Tracking: Google often creates detailed user profiles based on search queries, locations, or app usage. This data is used for advertising or even shared with third parties. VollaOS prevents this because Google services are completely absent. However, if you install Google apps or other apps with trackers or visit websites that leak data, this benefit is negated. The responsibility lies with the user. By cleverly configuring the security mode, data leaks can be permanently prevented, though this may cause certain apps or websites to stop functioning. The user has a choice: privacy or convenience.
• Less Data Leakage: Many apps on standard smartphones send data to Google or other companies, often without your knowledge. VollaOS reduces this data flow because no Google apps are pre-installed. However, if you install Google apps or other apps with trackers or visit websites that leak data, this benefit is negated.
• Local Data Processing: Functions like voice recognition or navigation run directly on your device, not in the cloud. This means your voice or location stays on your smartphone and is not sent to servers. However, if you install Google apps or other apps with trackers or visit websites that leak data, this benefit is negated.
• Transparency Through Open Source: Since VollaOS is based on open-source software, anyone can review the code. This ensures no hidden functions collect your data, which is not always clear with proprietary software (e.g., from Google).
• Control Over Permissions: You can precisely configure which apps have access to what, such as the camera, microphone, or location. You can even block internet access for individual apps to prevent them from sending data.
• Protection Against Surveillance: Standard smartphones use Google or Apple servers for push notifications (e.g., for new messages). These servers can be monitored by authorities. VollaOS uses alternative methods to reduce this risk.

These points make VollaOS a secure choice for anyone who takes their privacy seriously.

What Can’t VollaOS Prevent? Limitations with Apps and Trackers

While VollaOS offers many benefits, there are things it cannot automatically prevent, especially with apps you install yourself. Here are the key points, explained simply:

• Trackers in Apps: Many apps, especially from the Google Play Store, contain trackers. These are small programs that track your activities, such as which websites you visit or what you do in the app. VollaOS cannot automatically remove these trackers when you install the app. However, you can activate and configure the security mode and hide.me VPN to ensure permanent protection against tracking.
• Apps Requiring Google: Some apps only work with Google services. Even with microG (the alternative to Google services), such apps may not always work perfectly.
• No Automatic Tracker Blocking: Without additional tools like the security mode (see below) or other protective apps like hide.me VPN Pro, trackers in apps can still collect data.
• Privacy Violations by App Developers: Some apps store your data insecurely or share it with third parties. VollaOS cannot prevent this, as it depends on the app itself.
• Complexity for Beginners: Choosing secure apps and properly configuring privacy settings can be challenging for beginners. You need to invest some time to use VollaOS optimally. It’s your choice to become independent and self-determined. Start today.

In summary: VollaOS provides a solid foundation for privacy, but it’s up to you to choose secure apps and use the settings correctly.

What Does VollaOS’s Security Mode Offer?

VollaOS’s security mode (https://wiki.volla.online/index.php?title=Safe_Mode_in_VollaOS) is a special feature that further protects your privacy and security. Here’s how it works and why it’s useful:

• App and Domain Firewall: The security mode acts like a digital wall, preventing apps from sending data to unwanted servers. For example, you can configure an app to have no internet access or block specific web addresses (domains) that collect data.
• Password Protection: When you activate the security mode, you can secure it with a password. This means no one can turn it off without your password. This is great, for example, if you give your smartphone to your child or work in a company where data protection is important.
• Control Over Each App: You can decide exactly which apps can access the internet. For instance, you can block internet access for a game app if it’s only played offline. This reduces the risk of data being sent secretly.
• Blocking Trackers: The security mode detects trackers in apps and blocks them automatically, provided you have set up tracking lists. This protects your privacy by reducing the amount of data collected about you.

The security mode is like an additional shield, giving you more control over your apps and data.

What Does Using hide.me VPN on VollaOS Offer?

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) like hide.me is a tool that makes your internet connection more secure by encrypting your data. On VollaOS, hide.me offers additional privacy benefits. Here are the key points:

• No Data Storage: hide.me has a “zero-log policy.” This means they don’t store which websites you visit or what you do online. This makes you more anonymous.
• Encrypted Data Traffic: Everything you do online (e.g., sending emails or watching videos) is encrypted. It’s like a secret code that only you and the recipient can read. This protects your data from hackers or curious networks.
• Protection Against Leaks: Some VPNs have weaknesses that can expose your real IP address (so-called “leaks”). hide.me protects against such leaks, such as DNS, WebRTC, or IPv6, keeping your identity hidden.
• Multihop Function: hide.me can route your connection through multiple servers that change automatically. This makes it even harder to trace your activities.
• Fast Connection: Even with a VPN, hide.me maintains high enough speeds for streaming videos or normal browsing.
• Trust Through Transparency: hide.me is a certified VPN and publishes annual reports showing they don’t store user data. This gives you confidence that your data is protected.

With hide.me VPN, your internet usage on VollaOS becomes even more secure and anonymous.

Why Is the Combination of VollaOS, Security Mode, and hide.me VPN So Powerful?

When you use VollaOS, the security mode, and hide.me VPN together, you get particularly strong data protection. Here’s why this combination works so well:

• Protection on All Levels: VollaOS prevents Google from collecting your data. The security mode blocks trackers and unwanted app connections. hide.me VPN encrypts everything you do online. Together, they form a triple layer of protection.
• Complete Data Control: With the security mode, you can decide which apps access the internet, and with hide.me VPN, your entire data traffic remains anonymous. This gives you full control.
• Guaranteed Anonymity: hide.me’s zero-log policy and VollaOS’s Google-free foundation ensure no one can trace what you do online.
• Safe App Usage: With microG in security mode, you can use apps that normally require Google services without compromising your privacy. The VPN further protects the data these apps send.
• Ideal for Families and Businesses: The password-protected security mode is perfect for protecting children or employees. The VPN ensures public Wi-Fi networks, like those in cafés or offices, are safe.

This combination makes your smartphone one of the most secure devices you can own.

What Mistakes Can Users Make That VollaOS Can’t Prevent?

Even with a secure system like VollaOS, mistakes can happen that jeopardize your privacy. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid, explained simply:

• Installing Unsafe Apps: If you install apps from unknown sources or with many trackers (e.g., from the internet instead of F-Droid), they can collect your data. Only use trusted apps.
• Allowing Too Many Permissions: If you let an app access your location, contacts, or microphone when it doesn’t need to, data can be shared. Always check which permissions an app truly requires.
• Forgetting Updates: If you don’t regularly update VollaOS or your apps, security vulnerabilities can arise that hackers might exploit. Enable automatic updates or check for new versions regularly.
• Disabling Security Mode: If you turn off the security mode, you lose protection against trackers and unwanted connections. Keep it enabled unless you need to disable it briefly.
• Using Unsafe Wi-Fi: Without a VPN like hide.me, public Wi-Fi (e.g., in a café) can expose your data. Always use a VPN on such networks.
• Incorrect Settings: If you don’t properly use VollaOS’s privacy settings (e.g., not restricting app permissions), you won’t fully benefit from its advantages. Take time to understand the settings.

With a bit of caution, you can avoid these mistakes and use VollaOS optimally.

Additional Important Considerations About VollaOS

Here are a few more points that make VollaOS special and that you should know:

• Made in Germany: VollaOS devices are developed in Germany.
• Sustainability: Volla devices receive long-term version and security updates.
• Who Is VollaOS For?: VollaOS is perfect for people who value privacy, such as tech enthusiasts, parents protecting their children, or companies where data security is critical. VollaOS targets individuals who want to take responsibility for their actions and prioritize self-determined learning.
• Community Support: There’s a growing community of VollaOS users in over 55 countries who share tips and improve the system. You’re not alone!
• Cost: VollaOS smartphones aren’t the cheapest, but they offer unique privacy features you won’t find in standard smartphones. They’re worth the price if privacy matters to you.
• Comparison with Other Systems: There are other degoogled operating systems like GrapheneOS or /e/OS. VollaOS stands out with its unique features, applications, security mode, and VPN integration.

Conclusion

VollaOS is a fantastic operating system for anyone who wants to protect their data and use a smartphone without Google. It gives you control over your privacy, is easy to use, and becomes even more secure with the security mode and hide.me VPN. To get the most out of VollaOS, choose secure apps, understand the settings, and update regularly. Whether for yourself, your family, or your work—VollaOS is a strong choice for a secure and free smartphone experience!