Introduction

Artix Linux is a modern, independent Linux distribution that offers a flexible, lightweight and systemd-free environment. It is designed for users who prefer alternative init systems and value the power and simplicity of Arch Linux without systemd. With a rolling-release model, Artix provides up-to-date software packages while maintaining stability and performance. This article explores what Artix Linux is, how it works, its orientation, and some curiosities that make it stand out in the Linux ecosystem.

What is Artix Linux?

Artix Linux is a community-driven, rolling-release distribution based on Arch principles but replacing systemd with user-selected init systems. It emerged as a fork of Arch-OpenRC in 2017 and has since evolved into an independent project.

• Base: Arch Linux-like repositories and philosophy.
• Init Freedom: Offers OpenRC, runit, s6 and Dinit.
• Rolling Release: Continuous updates without major versions.
• Community Oriented: Developed and maintained by volunteers.

Key goals: maintain simplicity, provide a systemd-free environment, and embrace user choice. It is especially suited for enthusiasts, power users and anyone curious about alternative init solutions.

How It Works

Artix Linux operates similarly to Arch Linux but diverges in the init system and repository structure.

Init Systems

Artix supports multiple init systems, each with its own design and advantages:

• OpenRC: A dependency-based init system based on scripts, originating from Gentoo.
• runit: A cross-platform init scheme with fast boot times and simple supervision.
• s6: A small and secure supervision suite for Unix-like systems.
• Dinit: A modern init alternative emphasizing concurrency and minimalism.

Init Comparison Table

Package Management

Artix uses pacman, the powerful package manager from Arch Linux, ensuring compatibility with Arch repositories for most software.

• pacman -Syu: Update the entire system.
• pacman -S package: Install a package.
• pacman -R package: Remove a package.
• pacman -Ss keyword: Search repositories.

In addition, the AUR (Arch User Repository) is accessible through helpers like yay, offering thousands of community-maintained packages.

Repositories

Artix maintains its own repositories alongside core Arch repositories:

• core: Essential system packages without systemd.
• extra: Additional software maintained by the Artix team.
• community: Packages contributed and maintained by the community.
• multilib: 32-bit libraries for running 32-bit applications on 64-bit systems.

In many cases, Arch Linux repositories can be added to supplement availability, with care taken to avoid systemd packages.

Orientation and Target Audience

Artix Linux is oriented towards users seeking a systemd-free environment and more control over init systems.

Advanced and Enthusiast Users

• Developers: Want a minimal base to configure services.
• System administrators: Need a reliable server without systemd complexity.
• Hobbyists: Enjoy tinkering with init systems and low-level configuration.

Use Cases

• Desktop Workstation: Customized environments with lightweight desktops or full-featured DEs.
• Servers: Headless setups where fast boot and process supervision matter.
• Containers: Small footprints make it ideal for Docker or LXC.
• Educational: Learn UNIX init design and service management.

Key Components

Systemd Replacement

Artix’s most distinguishing feature is its avoidance of systemd. Systemd is replaced by init alternatives that adhere to Unix philosophies of simplicity and modularity. This appeals to users concerned about systemd’s complexity and integration.

Rolling Release Model

Like Arch, Artix follows a rolling-release model:

• No fixed releases the system is updated continuously.
• Users always have access to the latest software versions.
• Minor manual interventions may be required during major transitions.

Installation and Setup

Artix provides several official ISO images tailored to different init systems.

Installation Steps

• Download ISO: Choose the preferred init (OpenRC, runit, s6 or Dinit) from https://artixlinux.org.
• Create Bootable Media: Use tools like dd or Rufus on Windows.
• Boot Live Environment: Select Artix Linux and login as root (no password).
• Partition Disks: Use cfdisk or fdisk to create partitions.
• Format and Mount: Example: mkfs.ext4 /dev/sda1 and mount /dev/sda1 /mnt.
• Install Base: basestrap /mnt base base-devel linux linux-firmware (OpenRC example).
• Configure fstab: fstabgen -U /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab.
• Chroot: artix-chroot /mnt.
• Set Timezone and Locale.
• Create User: useradd -m -G wheel username, then set password.
• Install Bootloader: For GRUB: grub-install and grub-mkconfig.
• Exit and Reboot.

Post-Installation Configuration

• Enable Services: Depending on init: rc-update add sshd default (OpenRC) or ln -s /etc/runit/sv/sshd /run/runit/service (runit).
• Install Desktop Environment: pacman -S xfce4 xfce4-goodies.
• Network Setup: pacman -S networkmanager and enable service.
• Additional Software: Browsers, editors, development tools.
• Graphics Drivers: pacman -S mesa xf86-video-intel or proprietary as needed.

Community and Support

Artix has an active community that provides documentation, forums, and chat.

Documentation

The Artix Wiki is extensive and mirrors Arch Wiki with Artix-specific tweaks. Visit https://wiki.artixlinux.org.

Forums and Chat

• Forums: Friendly boards for installation help and troubleshooting.
• IRC Matrix: Real-time support channels.
• GitLab: Issue tracker and package repositories.

Contributing

Volunteers can help by:

• Maintaining packages in the Artix repositories.
• Improving documentation and translations.
• Providing support on forums and chat rooms.
• Testing new features and reporting bugs.

Curiosities and Unique Features

Artix Linux has several traits that set it apart:

• No systemd: Appeals to users who prefer traditional Unix-style init.
• Multiple init choices: Uncommon in most distributions.
• Small ISO footprint: Minimal base with optional desktop bundles.
• Compatibility: Works seamlessly with many Arch packages.
• Educational value: Great platform for understanding service supervision.

Interesting Facts

• Artix was originally named Arch-OpenRC before rebranding in 2017.
• The project maintains its own mirror network globally.
• Artix has a repository dedicated to init system experiments called stage.
• Developers emphasize simplicity and transparency in design.

Conclusion

Artix Linux stands as a compelling choice for users seeking a robust, Arch-based system without systemd. Its flexibility in init selection, combined with the simplicity of Arch’s rolling release model, provides both power and control. Whether you are a developer, system administrator, or Linux enthusiast, Artix offers an educational and efficient environment. With strong community support and extensive documentation, newcomers can get started quickly, while veterans can dive deep into service management and system customization. Explore more at https://artixlinux.org and discover the freedom of init choice.