Google has taken the wraps off Chrome OS operating system designed to be run on netbooks.

Chrome OS, due to launch next year, will be based on Linux, and is leaner than Windows and some people believe it could radically change the way we use computers. User data will be stored on Google's servers and synchronise with Chrome OS devices.

No common desktop applications such as Microsoft Word or Adobe Reader will run on Chrome OS and the only application it will come with is a web browser.

This means the user is limited to web applications; such as Gmail and Google Docs. Google said that because Chrome OS doesn’t allow the user to install desktop applications, the user is less at risk from malicious software.

This could make it safer for online banking and shopping than using Windows. However, even Google admits it wont be 100 per cent secure, something David Harley, director of malware intelligence at security software company, Eset, agreed.

"Google will go for a reasonably safe computing product rather than waiting for the 100 per cent answer that doesn't exist,” he said.

He also pointed out other problems with the OS, such as suspension or interruption of service, interception and spoofing and privacy issues.

Chrome OS allows Google to collect more information on the computing habits of its users, adding to the information it already has about people's search, email and video usage.

The software will be designed for portable computers such as netbooks; but currently not for desktop PCs or standard laptops.