  We propose a simple model for the origin and evolution of \lya clouds based
on cosmological conductive/cooling fronts. In this model the \lya arises in the
interfaces between the IGM and cold clouds that could be tentatively identified
with protogalaxies. Most of the properties of the \lya absorbers are reproduced
with a very restricted number of assumptions. Among these are the correct range
of HI column density, cloud sizes and redshift and HI column density
distributions for the absorbers. Several predictions and implications of the
model are briefly discussed.
