Arch Linux Guide

Overview

Arch Linux was founded in 2002 by Judd Vinet and is now led by Levente Polyák. It targets competent Linux users who want to build their system from the ground up.

Quick Facts

Based On	Independent
Package Manager	pacman
Default Desktop	None (user choice)
Release Cycle	Rolling release
Support Period	Continuous (rolling)
Init System	systemd

Warning

Arch Linux requires manual installation and configuration. It's not recommended for beginners. Consider Manjaro or EndeavourOS for an easier Arch-based experience.

Who Should Use Arch?

Advanced users - Comfortable with command line and system configuration
Learners - Want to deeply understand how Linux works
Minimalists - Prefer a lean system with only what you need
Bleeding edge enthusiasts - Want the latest software versions
Customization fans - Want complete control over their system

Installation

Arch Linux installation is manual but well-documented. Here's a simplified overview:

bash

# 1. Connect to internet
iwctl device list
iwctl station wlan0 connect SSID

# 2. Partition disk (example with fdisk)
fdisk /dev/sda

# 3. Format partitions
mkfs.ext4 /dev/sda2
mkswap /dev/sda1

# 4. Mount partitions
mount /dev/sda2 /mnt
swapon /dev/sda1

# 5. Install base system
pacstrap -K /mnt base linux linux-firmware

# 6. Generate fstab
genfstab -U /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab

# 7. Chroot into system
arch-chroot /mnt

# 8. Configure system (timezone, locale, hostname, etc.)
# Then install bootloader and exit

Tip

Use the archinstall script for a guided installation experience while still learning the process.

Package Management

Arch uses pacman, a powerful and fast package manager:

bash

# Update system
sudo pacman -Syu

# Install a package
sudo pacman -S package-name

# Remove a package
sudo pacman -R package-name

# Remove package and dependencies
sudo pacman -Rs package-name

# Search for packages
pacman -Ss keyword

# Show package info
pacman -Si package-name

# List installed packages
pacman -Q

# Clean package cache
sudo pacman -Sc

# Install from AUR using an AUR helper (yay)
yay -S aur-package-name

Key Features

Rolling Release

No version numbers or major upgrades. Update regularly and always have the latest software.

AUR (Arch User Repository)

Community-driven repository with over 85,000 packages. If it exists, it's probably in the AUR.

Minimalism

Arch provides only the essential base. You decide what goes on your system.

Build System

PKGBUILD makes creating and sharing packages straightforward.

The Arch Wiki

The Arch Wiki is one of the best resources in the Linux world. It's comprehensive, well-maintained, and useful even for users of other distributions.

Arch Wiki Highlights

Installation Guide	Step-by-step installation instructions
General Recommendations	Post-installation setup guide
Application List	Curated software recommendations
Hardware Compatibility	Driver and hardware setup guides

FAQ

Does Arch break often?

Not if you maintain it properly. Read the news before updating, and update regularly rather than letting updates accumulate.

How do I install a desktop environment?

Install your preferred DE (e.g., sudo pacman -S gnome) and enable its display manager.

What is an AUR helper?

Tools like yay or paruautomate installing packages from the AUR. Install them manually first.

Summary

Arch Linux offers complete control and the latest software for users willing to invest time in learning. Key takeaways:

Rolling release with cutting-edge packages
Manual installation teaches you how Linux works
pacman is fast and efficient
AUR provides access to nearly any software
Arch Wiki is an invaluable resource