Get a thin client such as an HP t610 and use Enhanced Write Filtering to protect from any changes.

You can set a system baseline and lock it down with EWF. Once locked down, any file calls from the operating system or software are intercepted and redirected to RAM. No changes are made to non-volatile memory. Once powered down, the system expunges all changes and reverts to the baseline you set.

>>"So let me get this straight: Individual citizens armed with handguns and rifles and shotguns are going to go up against government forces, who have artillery, cruise missiles, and attack helicopters?"

Yes. As an unfortunate example, look what is occuring in Iraq right now. The average citizen cannot withstand a toe-to-toe battle with an overpowering occupying army and they don't need to either. History has shown time and time again that a large army is incredibly susceptible to being stalled out or ground away by guerilla warefare.

Further, understand that many governments have been overthrown by people armed with handguns and rifles and shotguns. Armies show a reluctance to kill their brothers and countrymen, especially when thousands and thousands of them congregate, united in a common cause against a tyrannical government.