Arch Linux Installation Script

Overview

This Arch Linux Installation Script is a comprehensive Python-based utility designed to automate the installation and configuration of Arch Linux systems. It supports a variety of filesystems, desktop environments, and additional packages, catering to a customized and efficient setup process.

Features

• Filesystem Support: Handles BTRFS and EXT4 filesystem setups with options for swap files or swap partitions.
• GPU Compatibility: Provides configurations for NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel GPUs.
• Desktop Environment Installation: Supports multiple environments such as KDE, GNOME, i3, and others.
• Package Management: Integrates with both official Arch repositories and external repositories like Chaotic AUR and Blackarch for extensive software availability.
• Customizability: Extensive customization through a configuration file and interactive prompts to specify partitions, user details, and additional services.
• Post-Installation Configuration: Sets up system locales, timezones, hostname, and initiates essential services.

Requirements

Ensure that your system meets the following requirements:

• Python 3.x
• The Python packages listed in requirements.txt, notably rich and python-inquirer.

Installation

1. Clone the Repository: Download the scripts directly into your local machine where you plan to install Arch Linux.

2. Prepare the Environment: Run the following command to install necessary Python packages:

   pip install -r requirements.txt

3. Launch the Installation Script: Navigate to the directory containing the script and execute:

   python main.py

   Follow the interactive prompts to configure and start the installation.

Configuration

Edit config.py to toggle between testing and deployment modes:

• IS_TESTING: Set to True for a dry run without making any system changes.
• ADD_OPTIONAL_PACKAGES: Enable or disable the installation of optional packages.

Usage

The script operates through a series of interactive prompts to guide the user through setting up the installation parameters:

• Partitioning: Choose or create partitions for boot, root, and home.
• Filesystem: Select between BTRFS and EXT4, configure swap options.
• Desktop Environment: Choose the preferred GUI, like KDE or GNOME.
• Additional Software: Select from a wide range of additional software and drivers.

After configuring through the prompts, the script automates the following:

• Formats and mounts partitions.
• Installs the base system plus selected software.
• Configures system settings like hostname, timezone, and locale.
• Sets up users and passwords.

Advanced Configuration

For advanced users, the script supports modifications such as adding new package repositories, customizing kernel options, and enabling/disabling specific systemd services post-installation.

Contributing

Contributions to the script are welcome. Please ensure to test changes in a controlled environment before submitting a pull request.

Acknowledgments

Thanks to the Arch Linux community for their extensive documentation and support which greatly aided in the creation of this script.