Archinstall 3.0.15: A Significant Update for Arch Linux's Installation Process
New Features and Improvements
Arch Linux's menu-based installer, Archinstall, has received an update to version 3.0.15. This latest release introduces several new features and improvements aimed at enhancing the installation process and user experience.
- rEFInd boot manager support: Archinstall now supports the installation of rEFInd, an open-source boot manager for UEFI-based systems.
- CUPS (Common UNIX Printing System) installation: Users can now easily install CUPS during the installation process, simplifying the setup of local printing.
- Stable support for the COSMICdesktop environment: Archinstall now offers reliable support for COSMICdesktop, an elegant and lightweight desktop environment.
- Timer on post-install screen: A timer has been added to the post-install screen to provide users with a better understanding of the installation progress.
- Power management improvements: Archinstall now supports power-profiles-daemon/tuned as a power management daemon, allowing for more efficient system operation.
Additional Changes and Fixes
In addition to the new features, Archinstall 3.0.15 includes various bug fixes and other improvements. Some of the notable changes are:
- Repository and Zram algorithm configuration: Users can now explicitly select additional repositories and configure Zram algorithms, with support for dynamic setup based on best practices.
- IWD net wireless daemon: Archinstall now enables the use of IWD as a backend in network selection, improving wireless connectivity during installation.
- Removable location as default for bootloader installation: The removable location is now the default for bootloader installation, making it easier to manage installation media.
- LVM/rootsize adaptivity: The LVM/rootsize has been updated to adapt dynamically, ensuring optimal storage usage.
- Symlink for /etc/resolv.conf: A symlink for /etc/resolv.conf has been added when systemd-resolved is used, streamlining the DNS resolution process.
- Language display improvements: The Archinstall language display has been modified to be handled like other sections, enhancing user-friendliness.
Relevance for North East India and Broader Indian Context
The improvements and updates in Archinstall 3.0.15 are significant for users across India, including those in the North East region. The enhancements in wireless connectivity, printing support, and power management will contribute to smoother installation processes, particularly in areas where reliable internet connectivity might be a challenge.
Looking Forward
Archinstall 3.0.15 is set to be the default installer for the upcoming Arch Linux 2026.01.01 ISO snapshot. Users planning a fresh Arch Linux installation can look forward to enjoying these new features and improvements from January 1st, 2026.