Arch Linux: Why Developers Prefer It?

There are different forms of Linux. One is AlmaLinux and the other form will be discussed in the blog. Today, we will be discussing Arch Linux. The introductory part about Arch Linux we have covered in our blog “Exploring What Is Arch Linux: User Base And Unique Features”. There, we have covered its significant features and the user base that prefers this operating system.

Millions of users are using Arch Linux after Ubuntu. But what makes it so popular? MilesWeb has Arch Linux VPS hosting plans with full root access, 1 Gbps network speed, and a dedicated IP address. In this blog, we have mentioned why Arch Linux is helpful for developers. 

What is Arch Linux?

Arch Linux is an open-source, free, independent, and one of the best Linux distros which was released 22 years ago. In March 2002, Judd Vinet introduced this modern Linux distributing system with a minimal and user-centric feature that allows you for customization. For beginners, this thing may be difficult, but as a professional, it is very enjoyable because it has garnered immense popularity. 

Arch Linux is built to be simple and light and defines simplicity. There are no changes in plugins and unnecessary complexity. Hence, users can configure and make relevant settings in the operating system according to their needs. 

The main aim behind creating this GNU (Gnu’s Not Unix) is simplicity, optimization, modernity, practicality, user-specific, and versatility. It is intended for computers with x86-64 architecture and processors. Furthermore, Arch Linux has the default Arch Linux kernel, which includes non free proprietary blobs, and Arch Linux repositories contain free and non free software.

Features of Arch Linux:

Arch Linux is a popular Linux distro because of these features that set it apart from other operating systems. 

1. Customization Capability

Arch Linux has an immense  DIY (Do-It-Yourself) operating system which allows users the best customization possible regarding every minute detail. Arch Linux’s fundamental distinguishing feature is the ability to monitor and control various functional aspects after loading the ISO file.

The clean version of Arch Linux does not come with Windows management tools and the desktop environment by default, so the user must choose and build his desired environment from scratch.

You can customize different parts of the operating system with different features and components. Due to its lack of predefined programs, Arch Linux is a lightweight distribution. Arch Linux is also flexible, powerful, and highly available due to its capability to delete programs and non-functional items.

2. Up-To-Date, and Advanced Technology

Arch Linux uses advanced technologies for releasing updates and providing direct access to the latest versions. The Linux distro is always having new updates with the latest corrections and new features, and you no longer need to worry about incompatibility or partial failure of your system with updates. Thus, Arch Linux has become a stable Linux distribution. 

You don’t have to know the version number to receive updates, just use the Pacman-Syu command and enjoy the latest features. If you are interested in using the newest features, Arch Linux is a great choice. 

3. Arch Linux User Repository (AUR)

Arch User Repository (AUR) is another distinguished feature of Arch Linux. This distribution includes a community-driven repository, which is controlled and supported by the user community. The community contains package descriptions (PKGBUILDs) allowing the package to be compiled from source using makepkg and then installed by Pacman. 

Users can access that package in the user repository before the package is added to the Arch Linux main repository. As a result, users can access a world of new software. Developed to organize and share community packages, the AUR makes it easier to access popular packages in Arch community repositories.

4. Arch Linux Responds To Different Purposes

Pacman, as a packet manager specifically responsible for managing Arch packages and has high flexibility. In addition to installing binary packages in Arch repositories, it can also support installing binaries compiled from source by makepkg.

As a result, Arch Linux acts as a bridge between distributions that ignore users’ convenience due to the ability to compile binary files from the source through settings and distributions that allow binary packages to be installed via package management.

5. Familiarity and a Better Understanding of Linux

Beginners may have a problem with Arch Linux. Although professionals will not have any issues who are familiar with the Linux environment. This Linux distro has a complex command-line environment, of course, this complexity may be difficult and daunting for beginners, but for professionals. It is considered an advantage that they are more familiar with the Linux environments. 

Certainly! Here’s the content as per the requirements: Even if you are a complete newcomer, with this operating system, you will get acquainted with the concepts of display managers, chroot, and network configurations, and get to know new tips; for instance, the network manager may be a new experience for many users, who can manually create network configuration.

On top of all these, the manufacturers have also been able to provide security tools and penetration testing through the Black Arch repository on Arch Linux, which has contributed to the rise in the cyber security field. 

6. Originality

Unlike some other distributions such as Ubuntu, the arch Linux operating system was created from the ground up, independent of any Linux distribution, while Ubuntu is based on Debian. Debian distribution has been the example to all other Linux distributions, and this is where these projects came from, in most cases, the article What is Debian will guide you through the first familiarization with this software, but The Arch Linux operating system was developed separately, and no other operating system gave it any ideas.

7. Flexibility

Arch Linux is not just fun to work with because it is tough. That’s the one. Adjusting to suit your requirements is the power of the system. You can also access the web page with the required facilities by selecting modules at the installation time.

That way, a plethora of unwanted default apps won’t be forced on you. The malleability of the operating system has been the main stoic point.

Who Should Use Arch Linux?

The technical nature of Arch is envisioned as the top priority, and computer professionals who are the most advanced and the most proficient in the field can profit from their knowledge by following the DIY concept of this OS.

Arch Linux can be optimized for various purposes and customized according to the requirements by being acquainted with tech skills and having an active user community. Arch Linux distinguishes itself from other Linux distributions through Pacman and AUR features. First of all, the Arch Linux distribution in which these features are included is distinguished from the rest and has its unique advantages. Besides, users can only find these features in the Arch Linux operating system and other distributions with these features.

Adding the BlackArch repository to the Arch Linux by the users would make use of many of the security tools offered from other repositories, through one of the most popular repositories especially with cyber security specialists being BlackArch.