archinstall is a helper utility that automates Arch Linux installation. It bundles pre-configured installers for different use cases, including a guided installation option.
archinstall use different defaults than manual installation. Mention archinstall usage in support requests and provide /var/log/archinstall/install.log.
Running Archinstall
Boot the live medium as described in the installation guide pre-installation section.
archinstall before running if a new release appeared after the installation medium was created:
# pacman -Sy archinstallA partial upgrade works fine on the live ISO. Complete system updates are preferable when memory allows.
Execute the installer:
# archinstallThe guided wizard walks through configuration steps. Official documentation explains each option.
sudo only. This may lock you out of the system.
systemd-networkd or copies ISO configurations. Wireless setup via iwd transfers automatically, including saved credentials. Wired interface settings from the live environment also migrate.
Specify additional packages when prompted. Green confirmation text indicates safe reboot conditions after completion.
Profiles
archinstall includes profiles containing curated package selections with preconfigured settings. These install alongside the base system.
| Profile Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Desktop | Complete graphical environment with applications |
| Server | Minimal setup optimized for services |
archinstall. Package maintainers do not support these configurations. Review profile details before selection.
Configuring Dual Boot with Windows
Ensure unallocated disk space exists after the Windows partition. Launch archinstall and select manual disk partitioning. Choose your Windows drive.
Create a new partition with your preferred filesystem. Specify start and end sectors. Assign the root mountpoint to this partition. Mount the existing EFI partition at /boot.
Proceed with remaining installation options after confirming settings.
Language Support Configuration
The utility supports multiple languages maintained by community contributors. Translation completeness varies across locales. Switch languages from the initial menu entry.
The ISO lacks comprehensive font coverage. Languages using non-Latin characters display incorrectly without proper fonts. Console fonts exist in /usr/share/kbd/consolefonts. Set fonts manually:
$ setfont LatGrkCyr-8x16Post-Installation Steps
Consider installing additional tools after archinstall completes. yay provides AUR package management capabilities.
For troubleshooting bootloader issues, understanding the grub-install command options helps resolve configuration problems.
FAQs
archinstall automates Arch Linux installation through a guided wizard. It simplifies the traditionally manual configuration process with pre-configured options.
Run pacman -Sy archinstall from the live medium. This updates the package to the latest version available.
Yes. Use manual partitioning to create partitions alongside Windows. Mount the existing EFI partition at /boot and assign root to the new partition.
The root account becomes disabled. All privilege elevation requires sudo. This configuration may accidentally lock you out of the system.
No. Profiles are specific to archinstall functionality. Package maintainers do not provide official support for these pre-configured templates.
