Exploring Arch Linux: A Window into an Ex-Windows Fanboy’s Journey
The journey of transitioning from a Windows user to exploring the world of Linux has led one individual to take a deeper dive into Arch Linux. With a background in using Linux Mint and Fedora KDE Plasma, this user decided to experience the installation and setup of Arch Linux from scratch, driven by recommendations from online communities.
First Steps: Preparing for Installation
To embark on this challenge, the user first visited the Arch Linux website and created a bootable USB drive with the installation ISO. Upon booting the spare laptop from the USB, they were greeted not by a user-friendly interface, but by a blinking command line. This stark contrast to typical Linux installers underscored the commitment required to succeed with Arch Linux.
Understanding that installation would not be straightforward, the user referred to the comprehensive setup guide available on the Arch Linux wiki. This guide proved essential, as the installer does not include a browser or internet connectivity by default. Connecting to a network required manual command entry, which the user navigated with some trial and error. A helpful tip learned during this process was that pressing CTRL+C could halt a command, a lesson learned after inadvertently executing a prolonged ping command.
In addition to the official documentation, the user benefited from a YouTube tutorial by tech educator Ermanno Ferrari, which helped clarify several installation steps, particularly during the partitioning process. This initial phase, described as “pre-installation,” involved setting up an internet connection, configuring the timezone, and preparing the drive for the upcoming installation.
Installing and Exploring Arch Linux
Once the foundational setup was complete, the user finally proceeded to install Arch Linux. They followed the guide closely, aiming for a functional system rather than delving into extensive customization at this stage. The installation process highlighted the flexibility and control Arch Linux offers, allowing users to tailor their systems precisely to their needs.
For instance, while the command to install the basic system was straightforward, there were opportunities for experimentation that the user did not fully explore. The written manual suggested a basic installation with the Linux kernel and necessary firmware, yet the user noted that alternative configurations might have been possible.
After completing the installation, the user logged into the KDE Plasma desktop environment, expecting a steep learning curve. Surprisingly, they discovered that installing applications could be quite simple, especially with the existence of Flatpak. Nevertheless, opting for a more traditional route, the user sought to install Google Chrome without relying on Flatpak.
Research led them to the Arch User Repository (AUR) and its popular helper, Yet Another Yogurt (YAY). Using the command “yay -S google-chrome,” they successfully installed the browser, demonstrating the power and accessibility of the AUR.
Reflecting on the experience, the user expressed enjoyment in the setup process and the knowledge gained through the required documentation. While they initially approached Arch Linux with caution, they recognized a sense of achievement in building an operating system from the ground up, even with guidance.
As an ex-Windows fanboy, the user acknowledged the allure of Arch Linux, stating, “I get you, Arch Linux fans. I get you.” With plans to continue exploring Arch Linux, they anticipate further adventures, including testing different desktop environments and configurations. This exploration epitomizes the broader trend of users transitioning from traditional operating systems to the more customizable and robust world of Linux.
