GhostBSD is often seen as “another Linux alternative,” but in practice it fills a very different niche, one that many privacy-minded users overlook. It’s a stable, low-maintenance FreeBSD-based desktop system that collects zero telemetry, requires very few updates, and doesn’t try to reinvent itself every six months.
Because of that, GhostBSD is one of the strongest choices for a practical, easy air-gapped computer, a machine you configure once, unplug from the internet, and simply use without maintenance headaches.
This article explains why GhostBSD works so well in this role, what limitations exist (like the lack of built-in full-disk encryption), and how to protect sensitive data using tools like GnuPG.
Why GhostBSD Works Perfectly for Air-Gapped Setups
Most Linux distributions update constantly, kernels, desktop shells, drivers, browsers, background components. If you unplug a typical Linux machine from the internet, it becomes unstable.
GhostBSD is different:
- Very few updates
FreeBSD is known for stability and long maintenance cycles. GhostBSD inherits this. Once your software is installed, the system rarely needs anything major. - No telemetry or analytics
Nothing phones home. Nothing collects metrics. Nothing reports usage. - Predictable behavior
Because the base system is unified and conservative, GhostBSD stays stable for years, not months. - Ideal for offline, long-term use
Install your development tools, editors, browsers, and media apps — then pull the network cable. The system will continue to work flawlessly.
For writers, developers, hobbyists, and security-minded users who want a computer that just stays out of the way, GhostBSD is a perfect match.
The Missing Piece: Full-Disk Encryption
GhostBSD’s installer currently does not include full-disk encryption options.
For laptop users, this is a limitation. For air-gapped desktop machines, it is much less important, but still worth mentioning honestly.
Fortunately, you can still protect sensitive files effectively by encrypting them individually or in batches using GPG/PGP.
Encrypting Sensitive Files with GnuPG (GPG)
GPG provides strong, battle-tested encryption for individual files or entire collections of data. It’s an excellent alternative when whole-disk encryption isn’t available.
Below are simple examples anyone can follow.
Example 1: Encrypting Individual Files
Encrypt an image
gpg --symmetric photo.pngYou’ll be asked to create a passphrase.
This produces photo.png.gpg.
You can now safely delete the original.
Encrypt a text file
gpg --symmetric notes.txtDecrypt
gpg photo.png.gpg
gpg notes.txt.gpgExample 2: Encrypting a Directory and All Its Contents
- First, compress the directory:
tar -czf project.tar.gz project/- Then encrypt it:
gpg --symmetric project.tar.gz- When needed, decrypt:
gpg project.tar.gz.gpg
tar -xzf project.tar.gzThis method is simple, secure, and compatible across systems.
Extra Protection: BIOS and Drive Passwords
While BIOS and drive passwords are not substitutes for true disk encryption, they do provide an additional layer of difficulty for most attackers, especially opportunistic ones.
They help protect against:
- casual access
- non-technical individuals
- unauthorized booting
- simple data theft attempts
They do not protect against:
- highly skilled attackers
- physical attacks with specialized hardware
- someone who has extended access to your machine
But for many home users, especially those using an air-gapped desktop, BIOS and drive passwords can be a useful extra hurdle.
The key is understanding them as layers, not magical protection.
The Most Important Rule: Store Sensitive Data Externally
Whether you encrypt files, use BIOS passwords, or run an air-gapped setup, one guideline always holds true:
Always keep your truly sensitive data on removable media.
Preferably:
- a small encrypted USB drive
- stored in a safe place
- used only when needed
- never left plugged into a machine
This single habit prevents more problems than any other security measure.
So, How Secure Is GhostBSD Really?
GhostBSD is:
- Very secure for offline work
- Extremely stable
- Predictable and low-maintenance
- Free of background telemetry
- Well-suited for file-level encryption workflows
- One of the best choices for an air-gapped desktop machine
It is not:
- Not ideal for mobile devices without full-disk encryption
- Designed as a hardened OS for high-threat environments
- A substitute for disciplined data-handling practices
For most users, the practices outlined in this article, air-gapping your PC, using GhostBSD’s stable platform, and encrypting sensitive files with GPG, are more than sufficient. If your security needs go beyond that, it’s important to understand that absolute security does not exist: every computer has at least one, and often more, backdoors that even a fully LUKS-encrypted drive cannot protect against.
Don’t be swayed by those who brag online about “unbreakable” systems. For above-average protection, combining an air-gapped setup with strong file encryption takes you far, but it does not take you all the way. Thanks, Uncle Sam.