Arch Linux

Arch Linux
The Arch Linux logo
Release Status	Maintained
Release Model	Rolling Release
Package Manager	Pacman
Default Desktops	Cinnamon, Enlightenment, GNOME, KDE Plasma, LXDE, MATE, Xfce
Usage Type	Desktop
Architectures	x86_64
Website	archlinux.org

Arch Linux is an independent Linux distribution focused on the KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid)^[1] principle that focuses on being lightweight and flexible^[2]. It was originally founded by Judd Vinet due to his inspiration from CRUX Linux being "simplistic, elegant, and very quick and easy to use" ^[3].

Functionality

Distinguishing features of Arch Linux from other distributions are its package manager named pacman and the minimal installation package set base, which as of July 4. 2024 comprises only 28 packages such as glibc, systemd, and the only optional package linux, comprising the kernel.

Building Arch Linux packages is automated by the bash script makepkg which executes either a build script or a PKGBUILD.^[4]^[5] Users of the AUR are encouraged to understand the build scripts of packages they are about to execute before installing packages. makepkg is part of the pacman package.

Arch Installation Script


Mirrors	Select a mirror region that is close to you. This is where pacman is able to fetch package lists.
Locales	Select your keyboard layout.
Disk Configuration and Partitioning	While manual partitioning is slightly more advanced for beginners, archinstall provides a setting for a pre-configured setup that streamlines the process.
Full Disk Encryption	This is directed towards those interested in deeper security and/or privacy. While, security-wise, it does not necessarily guard your system while it is powered on, it will help mitigate data theft on your main drive from an adversary with access to it. [citation]
Bootloader	You are able to pick from GRUB, systemd-boot, EFIstub, and Lumine. The choice is up to you - generally, GRUB is the most popular.
Unified Kernel Images [citation]	(Someone more experienced can fill)
Swap Memory	The memory allocated to your system when it runs out of RAM. Set to as high or as little as you feel you need.
Host Name	The name of your machine.
Root Password	Set a password for the root account.
Profile and Drivers	Here, you can select multiple profiles: minimal - a barebones installation of Arch without any Display Manager. Consider whether you will really need such a minimal system. server - a minimal install aimed towards a headless server. desktop - the most popular choice for archinstall. Offers not only Desktop Environments but also Window Managers. Xorg - offers a minimal install, but with graphics drivers attached. Keep in mind your system composition and remember which Graphics Card or Processor you are using to select the correct driver.
Greeter/Display Manager	Offers a choice between sddm, gdm, ly, and lightdm.
Audio	It is generally recommended to pick pipewire, yet PulseAudio exists as an option. If this is a server, you will likely not need sound.
Kernels	There are four kernels, as of now, that users may choose from: Linux - the latest upstream (?) generic kernel release. Linux-LTS - a staggered release of the generic kernel operating from the latest Long-Term-Support release. Linux-Zen - a version of the kernel designed for average desktop usage. [CITATION] It optimizes the main kernel in favor of being run on a desktop, yet it arguably does not seem to offer much actual performance gain or loss [CITATION] Linux-Hardened - a version of the Linux kernel with extra patches for more security. Consider whether you need this or not - there are potential drawbacks. [CITATION]
Additional Packages	Name any additional packages you may want (e.g. Firefox)
Network Configuration	It's advised to use NetworkManager or plain iwctl so you do not have to worry about a broken network setup post-install. However, if you know what you are doing, use ethernet, or know how to install network pacakges after installation, you can still use no network configuration post install. If you are happy with your current configuration from the ISO, select copy from ISO.
Timezone	Select your timezone.
Automatic Time Sync (NTP)	Using systemctl timers [UNSURE], periodically sync with timeservers. For the ultra privacy-concerned, you can always leave this off.
Optional Repositories	There are two as of writing: multilib - From experience, it is a good idea to leave this ticked on. These generally provide compatibility libraries that you may need for other applications to run. testing - From experience, it is a good idea to leave this ticked off. These are often packages still undergoing trial runs from developers and are extremely prone to breakages.

Once you are done, either save configuration or plainly Install.

Trivia

If you add "ILoveCandy" to /etc/pacman.conf instead of a regular progress bar you get a pacman eating dots.
The name "Arch" came from the word "arch-nemesis".^[6]

Arch is directly inspired by another DIY distribution named CRUX.

[1] ttps://wiki.archlinux.org/title/arch_terminology#KISS

[2] ttps://archlinux.org/about/

[3] Interview with Judd Vinet[1]

[4] ttps://pacman.archlinux.page/makepkg.8.html

[5] ttps://pacman.archlinux.page/PKGBUILD.5.html

[6] ttps://web.archive.org/web/20120914175514/http://osdir.com/ml/linux.arch.general/2005-08/msg00253.html

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