Introduction
Garuda Linux is a cutting-edge, user-friendly Linux distribution based on Arch Linux. Known for its stunning visual appeal and robust performance, Garuda Linux offers a variety of desktop environments and features that cater to different user needs. The latest release, "Broadwing" (250308), continues to build on this legacy, providing users with an enhanced and seamless computing experience.
What is Garuda Linux?
Garuda Linux is an Arch-based Linux distribution that aims to provide a high-performance, visually appealing, and user-friendly desktop environment. It is designed to cater to a wide range of users, from beginners to advanced Linux enthusiasts. Garuda Linux stands out with its rolling release model, which ensures that users always have access to the latest software updates and features.
Features and Editions
Garuda Linux offers a plethora of features that make it a top choice for many users:
- Rolling Release Model: Garuda Linux follows a rolling release model, meaning users receive continuous updates without needing to perform major version upgrades.
- BTRFS Filesystem: The default filesystem is BTRFS with zstd compression, which supports snapshots and ensures system stability.
- GUI Tools: Garuda Linux provides various GUI tools for system management, including Garuda Assistant, Garuda Gamer, and Snapper-Tools.
- Chaotic-AUR Repository: This repository offers a vast selection of precompiled binaries, making it easy to install software.
- FireDragon Browser: A privacy-friendly browser based on Floorp, optimized for performance and security.
- Linux Zen Kernel: A faster, more responsive kernel optimized for desktop, multimedia, and gaming.
Garuda Linux comes in multiple editions, each tailored to different user preferences:
- KDE Plasma: The flagship edition with a highly customizable and visually appealing desktop environment.
- GNOME: A modern and clean desktop environment focused on ease of use.
- Cinnamon: Reminiscent of GNOME 2, offering flexibility and speed.
- XFCE: A lightweight desktop environment that is fast and low on system resources.
- i3wm: A lightweight window manager operated exclusively with the keyboard.
- Sway: A Wayland compositor with a completed configuration and easy-to-use keybindings.
- Hyprland: A Wayland-based desktop environment with advanced features.
Brief History and Developers
Garuda Linux was first introduced on March 26, 2020, by Shrinivas Vishnu Kumbhar (Librewish) from India and SGS from Germany. The project was developed to provide a user-friendly and visually appealing Linux distribution based on Arch Linux. The name "Garuda" is derived from Hindu and Buddhist mythology, representing a divine eagle-like bird.
The development team behind Garuda Linux includes a group of passionate and dedicated individuals who continuously work to improve and enhance the distribution. Key developers include SGS, Shrinivas Vishnu Kumbhar (Librewish), tbg, dr460nf1r3 (Nico), Yorper, Naman Garg, Filo, TNE, Πέτρος (Petsam), Dalto, Zoeruda, Eduard Tolosa, and Ankur Kumar.
Purpose and Target Audience
Garuda Linux was developed to provide a high-performance, visually appealing, and user-friendly Linux distribution that caters to a wide range of users. It is particularly well-suited for:
- Gamers: With its gaming-focused tools and optimizations, Garuda Linux is an excellent choice for gamers.
- Multimedia Enthusiasts: The distribution's performance optimizations and visually appealing desktop environments make it ideal for multimedia production.
- General Desktop Users: Garuda Linux offers a polished and modern desktop experience for everyday use.
- Advanced Users: The rolling release model and Arch-based foundation provide advanced users with the flexibility and control they desire.
Latest Release: Garuda Linux "Broadwing" (250308)
The latest release, "Broadwing" (250308), brings a host of new features and improvements to Garuda Linux:
- Garuda Rani: A new application designed to streamline and enhance the Garuda Linux experience. Rani integrates the functionality of the Welcome, Gamer, and Assistant apps, providing a centralized hub for system management and customization.
- Garuda Mokka: A new edition featuring a Catppuccin-themed KDE Plasma experience, offering a cohesive and elegant design.
- Visual Enhancements: The website and forum have been updated with new Catppuccin Mocha and Catppuccin Latte themes, creating a warm and inviting online experience.
- Wallpaper Contest Winner: The "Broadwing" wallpaper, featuring a stylized bird reminiscent of a phoenix, symbolizes the soaring spirit and power of Garuda Linux.
- Under-the-Hood Improvements: Various enhancements to the Garuda Linux experience, including updates to the Chaotic-AUR repository, customization options for the dr460nized edition, and performance improvements for the Hyprland, i3, and Sway editions.
System Requirements
To install and run Garuda Linux, your system should meet the following minimum requirements:
- Storage Space: 30 GB
- RAM: 4 GB
- Video Card: OpenGL 3.3 or better
- System Architecture: 64-bit
Download and Installation
To download and install Garuda Linux, follow these steps:
1. Download the ISO: Visit the Garuda Linux download page and select your preferred edition.
2. Create a Bootable USB: Use tools like Rufus, Balena Etcher, or Ventoy to create a bootable USB drive with the downloaded ISO.
3. Boot from USB: Insert the bootable USB drive into your PC and reboot. Access the boot menu and select the USB drive to boot from.
4. Start the Installer: Once the live environment loads, click on "Install Garuda Linux" to start the installation process.
5. Follow the Guided Installation: The Calamares installer will guide you through the installation process, including selecting your language, region, keyboard layout, partitioning, and creating user accounts.
Post-Installation Tips
After installing Garuda Linux, here are some essential tips to enhance your experience:
1. Configure Timeshift: Set up Timeshift to create system snapshots for easy recovery in case of issues.
2. Install Drivers: Use the Garuda Settings Manager to install proprietary drivers for your hardware.
3. Improve AUR Download Speed: Configure the mirror list for faster AUR downloads.
4. Enable Firewall: Activate the UFW firewall to protect against network intrusions.
5. Enable TRIM for SSD: Optimize SSD performance and longevity by enabling TRIM.
6. Install Microsoft Fonts: Enhance compatibility with documents by installing Microsoft fonts.
7. Enable Night Color: Reduce eye strain by enabling the Night Color feature.
8. Disable GRUB Delay: Speed up boot times by reducing the GRUB delay.
9. Clean Your System: Regularly clean your system to remove unnecessary files and free up space.
10. Check for Errors: Periodically check for system errors and address them promptly.
Getting and Giving Support
Garuda Linux offers various support options for users:
- Official Forum: Join the Garuda Linux forum to ask questions, share experiences, and get help from the community.
- Documentation: Access the official documentation for detailed guides and tutorials.
- Social Media: Follow Garuda Linux on social media platforms for updates and community interactions.
- Bug Reports: Report bugs and issues on Garuda Linux GitLab to help improve the distribution.
Conclusion
Garuda Linux "Broadwing" (250308) continues to elevate the user experience with its stunning visual appeal, robust performance, and user-friendly features. Whether you're a gamer, multimedia enthusiast, or general desktop user, Garuda Linux offers a polished and modern computing environment that caters to your needs. With its rolling release model, you can always stay up-to-date with the latest software and features.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is based on the latest available data at the time of writing. The Distrowrite Project is not responsible for any issues that may arise from following the instructions or recommendations provided. Always refer to the official Garuda Linux documentation and support channels for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Citations
5. How to Install Garuda Linux Step-by-Step with Screenshots
8. 10 Essential Things to do After Installing Garuda Linux - Average Linux User
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