Is running Ubuntu off a USB drive on a public computer considered hacking?

[iponeverything]

Of course the library first and last say on the software that is run in their system. While I would not say that there is not anything wrong with it, unless you read or write to system disk.. you do have to respect owner of the system.

I usually steer clear of public systems because of spyware and key loggers and such.. I don't need to check my email that badly. (even though I do travel a lot)

[3Miro]

Technically you can politely ask: "Is it OK to use my browser on this machine." The librarian would probably not understand and say "Yes." Then you have technically asked for permission and if later they say "No" they at least should not kick you out. "There has been a misunderstanding" you say and go back to the original system.

What I might be worried about is the bypass of some of the filters. Suppose you accidentally click on the wrong link and some XXX page opens up and there are kids around. Then you will be in big trouble, you will probably have to explain yourself to a police officer if not a judge.

[tamas305]

Common courtesy would seem to dictate that if you intend to use this public computer in a way that was not really intended, or expected, that you ask for permission. We understand your intentions are honorable (are at least I'm assuming they are) but then we're techo-literates around here (for the most part). The very fact that you're asking the question though, would indicate that you know you should ask first.

Do you run the risk of being "shot down" due to simple ignorance? Yes, you do; but thems the breaks. And you could fight the good fight if you want, in trying to explain... But Librarians are a tough lot, in my experience. By approaching them FIRST, however, you might be able to disarm the knee-jerk "OMG!" reaction and be able actually make your argument. Keep your words small and your explanation childishly simple and you might have a shot.

True, after all it is their system and they paid good money for it. It is in their right to tell you whether or not you can run programs/OSes that they do not know about or understand. If they do know (highly unlikely), they may say no precisely because they know how much damage you could cause if you really wanted to.

-tamas