Installing Arch Linuxtweight and flexible Linux distribution, is loved by some for its simplicity, minimalism, and the freedom it offers users to customise their system. In this guide, we will explore how to use Arch Linux.
Installing Arch Linux
Before we dive into how to use Arch Linux, let’s begin with the installation process. You can download the latest version of Arch Linux from the official website.
Creating a Bootable USB Drive
Once you have downloaded the ISO image, the next step is to burn the image to a USB drive. You can use tools like Rufus, Win32 Disk Imager or the ‘dd’ command in Linux.
Configuring the Installation
After successfully creating your bootable USB, it’s time to configure the installation. Restart your computer, and boot from the USB. You should see the Arch Linux command prompt. Start by checking the internet connection with the command:
ping -c 3 www.google.com
If the internet is working, we can proceed to partition the disk. If you prefer automated partitioning, you can use the fdisk command:
fdisk /dev/sda
After partitioning, it’s time to format the partitions using the mkfs command:
mkfs.ext4 /dev/sda1
Setting Up Arch Linux
Installing base system
With your partitions formatted, it’s time to install the base system. Mount the root partition then install the base system using pacstrap:
mount /dev/sda1 /mnt
pacstrap /mnt base
Configuring Arch Linux
Once the base system is installed, you need to perform some configurations. Generate an fstab file using the following command:
genfstab -U /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab
Installing a Desktop Environment
Finally, you might want to install a desktop environment for easier interaction. GNOME is one of the most popular desktop environments:
pacman -S gnome
Conclusion
Arch Linux offers a unique experience for users who prefer to tailor-make their system. This guide is merely an introduction to installing and using Arch Linux. Remember that one of the fundamental principles of Arch Linux is learning by doing. So, don’t be afraid to explore other features and options that are not covered in this guide.
