What is Arch Linux?

 

What is Arch Linux

Arch Linux is a Linux distribution that is created for simplicity, optimization, modernity, pragmatism, user centrality, and versatility. And it is an independently developed, x86_64-optimised Linux distribution targeted at competent Linux users. Arch Linux is very Original and different from other Linux distributions like Ubuntu, Mint, Kali, Fedora, CentOS, Debian, RHEL, and SUSE with its package management system, philosophy and it has an own style.

As well as Arch Linux is a rolling release distribution. That means new kernel and application versions are rolled out to you as soon as they are released and it provides very Straightforward Updates or Upgrade without the need to make major upgrades or catastrophic changes.^[1]

History

The Arch Linux project was started in March 2001 by Judd Vinet. The first version in arch linux was compatible with the 32-bit x86 architecture but x86_64 support came in April 2006. The Arch Linux creator Vinet stepped down and transferred the project to the “Aaron Griffin” in October 2007. After in February 2020, Aaron Griffin transferred the project to the Levente Polyak. Also, 32-bit support was dropped in January 2017.^[2]

Arch Wiki

The main purpose of Arch Wiki is to provide more comprehensive and accessible documentation for Arch Linux users. This is a worldwide project involving people from all over the world. The official Maintenance Team and thousands of contributors also contribute to the maintenance of Arch Wiki and contents are created by the community. Most of the articles in arch wiki are not written by one person and represent the cumulative effort of many people.^[3]

Advantages of Arch Linux

• Arch Linux provides a highly customizable installation process. You can configure every detail you want and it will be a great advantage for different needs.
• Large wiki and documentation make Archive very supportive for Linux users. Arch Archive offers a variety of opportunities, solutions, tutorials, and frequently asked questions.
• Packman Package Manager is another advantage of Arch Linux that is much simpler and faster than other package managers likes Apt, apt-get, yum, dnf, etc.
• We can Learn Linux with the Arch Linux distribution because it is simple and clean where every detail of the operating system can be changed easily.
• Manjaro Linux is derived from Arch Linux, which is more user-friendly with some useful features, menus and packages.
• Arch Linux supports a lot of different mainstream and marginal desktop environments.(Cinnamon, GNOME, KDE Plasma, Mate, Xfce ….)
• Arch linux has Great vast user community, it is ready to provide help for us. It is very helpful and experienced in different aspects of the Arch Linux. The Arch Linux community actively supports the Arch Linux brand.

Disadvantages of Arch Linux

• The complex installation process can be problematic for users as they have to configure different details and requirements.
• The installation process takes a long time and must be connected to the Internet.
• Arch Linux has a smaller community than other distributions on Linux. For example Ubuntu, Fedora
• Arch Linux is minimalist and this minimalist approach can confuse new users.
• When Arch Linux is broken, it is often difficult or time-consuming to diagnose and repair it^[4]

Arch Linux Based Distributions

There are many Linux Distros based on Arch Linux. I would like to mention here only a few of the most popular Linux distros based on Arch Linux.

1. Manjaro

Manjaro is a fast, user-friendly and desktop-oriented Linux distribution based on Arch Linux. It provides all the benefits of cutting edge software combined with a focus on user-friendliness and accessibility, making it suitable for newcomers as well as experienced Linux users. Manjaro Linux offers Xfce as the core desktop options, as well as KDE, GNOME and a minimalist Net edition for more advanced users.^[5]

Manjaro linux features

• A simplified, user-friendly installation process
• Automatic hardware detection and Automatic installation of the necessary software for your hardware (eg -: Device Drivers)
• Pre-installed desktop environments and Pre-installed graphical applications to easily install software and update the system
• ability to easy installation and use of multiple kernels.^[6]

2. Arco Linux

ArcoLinux based in Belgium, (previously known as ArchMerge) is a distribution based on Arch Linux. Arco Linux has three major projects. ( ArcoLinux, ArcoLinuxD and ArcoLinuxB)

ArcoLinux is a full-featured iso containing distribution that ships with the Xfce desktop, Openbox and i3 window managers.

ArcoLinuxD is a minimal distribution that includes scripts that enable power users to install any desktop and application.

ArcoLinuxB is a project that allows users to power build custom distributions, while also developing several community editions with pre-configured desktops, such as Awesome, bspwm, Budgie, Cinnamon, Deepin, GNOME, MATE and KDE Plasma

ArcoLinux also offers a variety of video tutorials focusing on learning and acquiring Linux skills.^[7]

3.Chakra Linux

Chakra Linux is a powerful user-friendly Arch Linux-based distribution with a focus on KDE and Qt software. chakra Linux is a half-rolling release, because while enjoying the latest version of the Plasma desktop environment, it allows users to install their favorite applications and updates from its Arch-based system.

For the new Linux users, Chakra may be a little bit overwhelming, but for the intermediate and advanced user, it could be a really good choice.

Chakra linux features

• A continuously updated Plasma desktop.
• automatic hardware detection and configuration
• A periodically updated core system provides stability.
• Set up your system once, and you will receive all the latest changes by keeping it updated.^[8]

In addition to some of the examples mentioned above, there are a number of other Linux distros based on Arch Linux. Anarchy Linux , ArchBang, Antergos OS, VeltOS , BlackArch, Artix Linux, RebornOS, EndeavourOS, Archman, ArchLabs Linux,..etc

Dekstop Environments

Arch Linux ISO doesn’t come with the default desktop environment and we need to install it manually. There are many desktop environments support on Arch Linux. For example, Xfce, Kde, Gnome, Deepin, Cinnamon, Mate etc.Also Arch Linux allows the user to customize the desktop environment to their liking.

References

1. ^ Baydan, İsmail. "What Is Arch Linux? Why Use It?"
2. ^ Baydan, İsmail. "What Is Arch Linux? Why Use It?"
3. ^ "ArchWiki:About - ArchWiki". wiki.archlinux.org. 
4. ^ "Arch Linux - InstallGentoo Wiki". wiki.installgentoo.com. 
5. ^ "DistroWatch.com: Manjaro Linux". distrowatch.com. 
6. ^ "Manjaro - FREE OPERATING SYSTEM FOR EVERYONE"
7. ^ "Arcolinux.com | Linux Made Easy and Beautiful". arcolinux.com. 
8. ^ "Chakra". www.chakralinux.org.