ArcoLinux 25.03

ARCOINSTALL ISO ALLOWS YOU TO INSTALL NIRI

The new ArcoInstall ISO release includes an additional Wayland tiling window manager option called Niri, providing users with a modern and efficient workflow. This update expands the customization possibilities, allowing for a streamlined and dynamic tiling experience on Wayland.

Calamares

Only GRUB supports encryption. Therefore, the option is hidden when choosing systemd-boot or rEFInd on the overview page.

Calamares

Calamares is a free, modular, and distribution-independent system installer that offers a smooth and customizable installation experience for Linux distributions. Our setup is based on the latest available code – 13/02/2025.

Building ArcoNet, ArcoPro, and ArcoPlasma ISOs on a Pure Arch Linux System

We have restructured our build scripts for ArcoNet, ArcoPro, and ArcoPlasma to ensure that our ISOs can be built on a genuine Arch Linux installation without requiring any pre-existing ArcoLinux resources.

Key Changes in the Build Process

To facilitate this transition, we now incorporate:

• arcolinux-keyring – Ensuring the necessary keys are available for package verification.
• arcolinux-mirrors git – Providing access to ArcoLinux package repositories for building the ISOs.

With these adjustments, developers and contributors can now build ArcoLinux ISOs independently on a clean Arch Linux system, making the process more flexible and accessible.

Optional Removal of ArcoLinux Packages

If desired, these two packages can be removed later with a simple command:

sudo pacman -R arcolinux-keyring arcolinux-mirrors-git

However, this is not necessary, as these files will not be used by Pacman.

NIRI – A SCROLLABLE-TILING WAYLAND COMPOSITOR

Introduction

The Linux desktop environment is evolving, and Wayland compositors are at the forefront of this transformation. Among the many options available, Niri stands out as an innovative scrollable-tiling Wayland compositor designed to enhance the tiling window management experience. It introduces unique features that make workflow management more intuitive and efficient.

What is Niri?

Niri is a Wayland compositor that implements scrollable tiling, a novel approach to window tiling that allows users to seamlessly navigate and manage open applications. Unlike traditional tiling window managers that force applications to conform to a fixed grid, Niri provides a more fluid and natural way to organize workspace layouts.

Key Features

1. Scrollable Tiling
   • Instead of static layouts, Niri allows users to scroll through open windows dynamically, making navigation smoother and reducing clutter.
2. Wayland-Native
   • Designed to run natively on Wayland, ensuring improved security, performance, and compatibility with modern Linux distributions.
3. Customizability
   • Offers extensive configuration options to tailor the experience according to user preferences.
4. Efficient Resource Usage
   • Optimized to run with minimal system resource consumption, making it ideal for lightweight setups.
5. Keyboard-Driven Workflow
   • Supports advanced keyboard shortcuts to navigate, manage, and organize windows without relying on a mouse.

Advantages Over Traditional Tiling Window Managers

1. Enhanced Productivity

• Traditional tiling window managers often require manual resizing and reordering of windows. Niri’s scrollable tiling eliminates these inefficiencies by allowing users to cycle through their workspace seamlessly.

2. Better Space Utilization

• Unlike static layouts that limit workspace flexibility, Niri ensures that screen real estate is efficiently utilized by dynamically adjusting the view.

3. Smoother Navigation

• Users can effortlessly scroll through their tiled windows without disrupting their workflow, making multitasking more intuitive.

Who Should Use Niri?

Niri is ideal for Linux users who prefer tiling window managers but seek a more dynamic and flexible experience. It is particularly suited for:

• Developers and power users who rely on keyboard-driven workflows.
• Users who want a lightweight yet powerful Wayland compositor.
• Those who find traditional tiling layouts restrictive.

Conclusion

Niri brings a refreshing approach to window management with its scrollable-tiling concept, improving efficiency and user experience. As Wayland adoption continues to grow, projects like Niri are paving the way for more innovative desktop environments.

For more information and updates, visit Niri’s official GitHub repository.

You can combine Niri with Hyprland or Wayfire or Plasma Wayland.

To iterate: If you encounter complications during the advanced installation because of Pacman errors, it’s advisable to switch to the easy installation method.

It’s important to note that these issues stem from Pacman, not the Calamares installer.

The easy installation process is dependable and will ensure a successful setup.

After restarting your system, you’ll find three options for managing your software:

– Sofirem: Provides an easy-to-use interface for installing or uninstalling software, mirroring the capabilities found in the advanced mode of Calamares.
– Custom Scripts: For those seeking a tailored setup, you can adapt the Arcolinux-Nemesis scripts to customize your system further.
– Pamac or Octopi: These tools offer a straightforward way to search, install, or remove software with just a few clicks.