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CachyOS Installation Guide

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Mattscreative edited this page Dec 5, 2025 · 3 revisions

CachyOS Installation Guide

This comprehensive guide will walk you through installing CachyOS on your system, covering both the graphical (GUI) and command-line (CLI) installation methods.

Table of Contents

  1. Before You Begin
  2. Booting from USB
  3. GUI Installation (Calamares)
  4. CLI Installation (Command-Line)
  5. Post-Installation Steps
  6. Troubleshooting Installation

Before You Begin

Prerequisites Checklist

Before starting the installation, make sure you have:

  • Read the CachyOS Getting Started Guide - Understand what CachyOS is and system requirements
  • Created bootable USB drive - See the Getting Started guide for instructions
  • Backed up important data - Installation will erase data on the target disk
  • Verified system compatibility - Check CPU, RAM, and storage requirements
  • Configured BIOS/UEFI - Set boot order and disable Secure Boot if needed
  • Prepared disk space - At least 20 GB free (40+ GB recommended)

What You'll Need During Installation

  • Bootable USB drive with CachyOS ISO
  • Internet connection (for downloading packages during installation)
  • 30-60 minutes of time (depending on internet speed and hardware)
  • Patience - First installation can take time

Booting from USB

Step 1: Insert USB Drive

  1. Insert your bootable USB drive into a USB port
  2. Use USB 3.0 port if available (faster boot and installation)
  3. Make sure the USB is properly inserted

Step 2: Boot from USB

Method 1: Boot Menu (Recommended)

  1. Restart your computer
  2. Press the boot menu key during startup (before OS loads)
  • Common keys: F12, F10, F8, Esc
  • Varies by manufacturer:
  • Dell: F12
  • HP: F9 or Esc
  • Lenovo: F12
  • ASUS: F8 or Esc
  • Acer: F12
  1. Select your USB drive from the boot menu
  2. Press Enter

Method 2: BIOS/UEFI Boot Order

  1. Enter BIOS/UEFI (usually F2, F10, Del, or Esc during boot)
  2. Navigate to Boot settings
  3. Set USB drive as first boot device
  4. Save and exit (usually F10)
  5. Computer will restart and boot from USB

Step 3: CachyOS Boot Menu

You should see the CachyOS boot menu with options:

CachyOS Linux
  Boot CachyOS (default)
  Boot CachyOS (fallback initramfs)
  Boot CachyOS (nomodeset)
  Boot CachyOS (safe graphics)
  Boot from hard disk
  UEFI Firmware Settings

What each option means:

  • Boot CachyOS (default): Normal boot - use this for most systems
  • Boot CachyOS (fallback initramfs): Use if default boot fails
  • Boot CachyOS (nomodeset): Disables graphics drivers - use if you have display issues
  • Boot CachyOS (safe graphics): Safe graphics mode - use for graphics problems
  • Boot from hard disk: Boot your existing OS (if dual booting)
  • UEFI Firmware Settings: Enter BIOS/UEFI

For first-time installation:

  • Press Enter or wait 5 seconds for default boot
  • If you have graphics issues, try "safe graphics" or "nomodeset"

Step 4: Live Environment

After booting, you'll see:

  1. CachyOS desktop loads (this is a "live" environment - running from USB)
  2. You can explore the system before installing
  3. Test hardware - check if everything works
  4. When ready, launch the installer

Important: The live environment is running from USB, so it may be slower than the installed system. This is normal.

GUI Installation (Calamares)

Calamares is the graphical installer used by CachyOS. It provides a user-friendly, step-by-step installation process.

Launching the Installer

Method 1: Desktop Icon

  • Look for "Install CachyOS" icon on the desktop
  • Double-click to launch

Method 2: Application Menu

  • Click the application menu (usually bottom-left or top-left)
  • Search for "Install" or "Calamares"
  • Click "Install CachyOS"

Method 3: Terminal

sudo calamares

Installation Steps

Step 1: Welcome

What you'll see:

  • Welcome screen with CachyOS information
  • Language selection (if available)
  • Overview of the installation process

What to do:

  • Read the information
  • Select your language (if option available)
  • Click "Next" to continue

Step 2: Location

What you'll see:

  • World map or location selector
  • Timezone selection
  • Region and city options

What to do:

  1. Select your region (click on map or use dropdown)
  2. Select your city/timezone
  3. Verify the timezone is correct
  4. Click "Next"

Why this matters:

  • Sets system clock correctly
  • Ensures file timestamps are accurate
  • Important for scheduled tasks and logs

Step 3: Keyboard

What you'll see:

  • Keyboard layout selector
  • Keyboard model options
  • Test input field

What to do:

  1. Select your keyboard layout (e.g., US, UK, German, etc.)
  2. Type in the test field to verify layout
  3. Check special keys (Shift, Alt, etc.) work correctly
  4. Click "Next"

Common layouts:

  • US: QWERTY (most common)
  • UK: British layout
  • German: QWERTZ
  • French: AZERTY

Step 4: Partitioning (Disk Setup)

** Important**: This step will modify your disk. Be careful!

What you'll see:

  • Disk selection
  • Partitioning options:
  • Erase disk: Wipes entire disk (for single OS)
  • Replace partition: Replace a specific partition
  • Manual partitioning: Advanced - create partitions yourself

Option A: Erase Disk (Single OS Installation)

Best for: Installing CachyOS as the only operating system

Steps:

  1. Select "Erase disk"
  2. Choose the disk to install to (usually /dev/sda or /dev/nvme0n1)
  3. Verify it's the correct disk - check the size matches your target drive
  4. ** Warning**: All data on this disk will be erased!
  5. Click "Next"

What happens:

  • Entire disk is wiped
  • Automatic partitioning is created:
  • EFI partition (for UEFI boot) - ~512 MB
  • Root partition (/) - Rest of disk
  • Swap partition (optional) - For virtual memory

Option B: Replace Partition (Dual Boot)

Best for: Installing alongside Windows or another Linux distribution

Prerequisites:

  • You've already shrunk your existing OS partition
  • You have free unallocated space (40+ GB recommended)

Steps:

  1. Select "Replace partition"
  2. Choose the partition to replace (the free space you created)
  3. Verify the partition is correct
  4. ** Warning**: This partition will be erased!
  5. Click "Next"

What happens:

  • Selected partition is formatted
  • CachyOS is installed to that partition
  • Existing OS remains on other partitions

Option C: Manual Partitioning (Advanced)

Best for: Experienced users who want full control

Steps:

  1. Select "Manual partitioning"
  2. Select your disk
  3. Create partitions:
  • EFI partition (if UEFI):
  • Size: 512 MB - 1 GB
  • Type: EFI System Partition
  • Format: FAT32
  • Mount point: /boot/efi
  • Root partition:
  • Size: 40+ GB (rest of space)
  • Type: Linux filesystem
  • Format: ext4 (recommended) or btrfs
  • Mount point: /
  • Swap partition (optional):
  • Size: Equal to RAM or 2x RAM
  • Type: Linux swap
  • No mount point needed
  1. Click "Next"

Partition recommendations:

  • EFI: 512 MB - 1 GB (FAT32)
  • Root (/): 40+ GB (ext4 or btrfs)
  • Swap: 4-8 GB (or equal to RAM)
  • Home (/home): Optional separate partition (20+ GB)

Step 5: Users

What you'll see:

  • User account creation form
  • Username field
  • Password fields
  • User full name
  • Hostname (computer name)
  • Root password option

What to fill in:

  1. Your full name (optional, for display)
  • Example: "John Doe"
  1. Username (required)
  • Lowercase letters, numbers, and hyphens only
  • Example: "johndoe" or "john-doe"
  • Cannot be changed easily later!
  1. Password (required)
  • Enter a strong password
  • Remember this password! You'll need it to log in
  • Minimum 8 characters recommended
  • Mix of letters, numbers, and symbols
  1. Confirm password
  • Re-enter the same password
  1. Hostname (computer name)
  • Name for your computer on the network
  • Example: "cachyos-pc" or "my-laptop"
  • Default is usually fine
  1. Root password (optional)
  • Password for administrator account
  • If left empty, sudo will use your user password
  • Recommended: Leave empty (use sudo instead)

Security tips:

  • Use a strong, unique password
  • Don't use easily guessable passwords
  • Consider using a password manager
  • Root password is optional - sudo is safer

Step 6: Summary

What you'll see:

  • Summary of all your choices:
  • Location/timezone
  • Keyboard layout
  • Disk partitioning
  • User account information

What to do:

  1. Review everything carefully
  2. Verify disk selection is correct
  3. Check username and hostname
  4. Make sure you're ready - installation will begin
  5. Click "Install"

** Final Warning:**

  • Installation will begin and cannot be easily stopped
  • Your disk will be modified
  • Make sure everything is correct!

Step 7: Installation Progress

What you'll see:

  • Progress bar showing installation status
  • List of operations being performed:
  • Partitioning disk
  • Installing base system
  • Installing packages
  • Configuring system
  • Setting up bootloader

What's happening:

  1. Disk is partitioned (if needed)
  2. Base system is installed
  3. Packages are downloaded from internet
  4. Desktop environment is installed (if selected)
  5. System is configured
  6. Bootloader is installed (GRUB, systemd-boot, etc.)

Time estimate:

  • Fast internet + SSD: 10-20 minutes
  • Average internet + HDD: 20-40 minutes
  • Slow internet: 40-60+ minutes

What to do:

  • Wait patiently - don't interrupt the process
  • Don't remove USB drive
  • Don't turn off computer
  • Watch for any error messages

If you see errors:

  • Note the error message
  • Take a photo if possible
  • See troubleshooting section below

Step 8: Installation Complete

What you'll see:

  • "Installation Complete" message
  • Option to restart or continue testing

What to do:

  1. Click "Restart Now" (or "Finish")
  2. Remove USB drive when prompted
  3. Press Enter to reboot
  4. Computer will restart

After restart:

  • Computer should boot into CachyOS
  • You'll see the login screen
  • Log in with your username and password

⌨ CLI Installation (Command-Line)

The CLI installer is a text-based installation method for advanced users who prefer command-line interfaces or need more control.

When to Use CLI Installer

Use CLI installer if:

  • You prefer command-line interfaces
  • You want more control over installation
  • You're experienced with Linux
  • You're installing on a server (no GUI)
  • GUI installer has issues

Use GUI installer if:

  • You're new to Linux
  • You prefer graphical interfaces
  • You want a guided experience

Launching CLI Installer

From live environment:

# Launch the CLI installer
sudo cachyos-installer

Or:

# Alternative method
archinstall

CLI Installation Steps

Step 1: Language Selection

What you'll see:

  • List of available languages
  • Numbered options

What to do:

  • Type the number for your language
  • Press Enter

Step 2: Region Selection

What you'll see:

  • List of regions/countries
  • Numbered options

What to do:

  • Type the number for your region
  • Press Enter

Step 3: Disk Selection

What you'll see:

  • List of available disks
  • Disk sizes and models
  • Numbered options

What to do:

  1. Review the disk list
  2. Identify your target disk (check size and model)
  3. Type the number for your disk
  4. Press Enter

** Warning**: Make sure you select the correct disk!

To verify disk:

# List disks (in another terminal)
lsblk

# Or
fdisk -l

Step 4: Partitioning

What is partitioning?

  • Partitioning: Dividing your hard drive into separate sections
  • Each partition acts like a separate disk
  • Different partitions can have different purposes (OS, data, swap)

Why partition?

  • Organizes your disk
  • Allows multiple operating systems (dual boot)
  • Separates system files from user data
  • Provides swap space (virtual memory)

Options:

  • Automatic: Let installer create partitions (recommended for beginners)
  • Manual: Create partitions yourself (for advanced users)

Automatic partitioning:

  1. Select "Automatic"
  2. Choose disk layout:
  • EFI + Root + Swap (recommended)
  • EFI: Boot partition (for UEFI systems)
  • Root: Main system partition (where CachyOS installs)
  • Swap: Virtual memory (when RAM is full)
  • EFI + Root (no swap)
  • No swap partition (uses swap file instead, or no swap)
  • Good if you have lots of RAM (16GB+)
  • Root only (no EFI, for legacy BIOS)
  • For older computers with BIOS (not UEFI)
  • No EFI partition needed
  1. Confirm partitioning

What automatic partitioning does:

  • Creates partitions automatically
  • Formats them with correct file systems
  • Sets up mount points
  • Configures everything for you

Manual partitioning:

  1. Select "Manual"
  2. Create partitions using cfdisk or fdisk:

What are cfdisk and fdisk?

  • fdisk: Command-line disk partitioning tool
  • cfdisk: Curses-based (text menu) version of fdisk (easier to use)
  • Both let you create, delete, and modify partitions

Using cfdisk (easier for beginners):

# Launch cfdisk
sudo cfdisk /dev/sda

What you'll see:

  • A menu showing your disk
  • Options: New, Delete, Write, Quit
  • Use arrow keys to navigate

Create partitions:

  • EFI partition (if UEFI):
  • Size: 512 MB - 1 GB
  • Type: EFI System Partition
  • What it's for: Stores boot files for UEFI systems
  • Root partition:
  • Size: 40+ GB (rest of space)
  • Type: Linux filesystem
  • What it's for: Where CachyOS and all your files go
  • Swap partition (optional):
  • Size: 4-8 GB (or equal to RAM)
  • Type: Linux swap
  • What it's for: Virtual memory when RAM is full
  1. Format partitions:

What is formatting?

  • Formatting: Prepares a partition for use

  • Creates a file system (like ext4) on the partition

  • Erases any existing data

  • Makes the partition ready to store files

    # Format EFI partition
mkfs.fat -F32 /dev/sda1

What this command does:

  • mkfs.fat: Creates a FAT32 file system

  • -F32: FAT32 format (required for EFI partition)

  • /dev/sda1: The partition to format (first partition on first disk)

  • ** Warning**: This erases all data on the partition!

    # Format root partition
mkfs.ext4 /dev/sda2

What this command does:

  • mkfs.ext4: Creates an ext4 file system

  • ext4: Linux file system (reliable, fast, widely used)

  • /dev/sda2: The partition to format (second partition)

  • ** Warning**: This erases all data on the partition!

    # Format swap
mkswap /dev/sda3
swapon /dev/sda3

What these commands do:

  • mkswap: Creates a swap area on the partition
  • swapon: Activates swap (makes it available for use)
  • /dev/sda3: The swap partition (third partition)
  • Swap: Used when RAM is full (slower than RAM, but prevents crashes)
  1. Mount partitions:

What is mounting?

  • Mounting: Making a partition accessible at a directory

  • Like "plugging in" the partition so you can use it

  • Partitions must be mounted before you can access them

    # Mount root
mount /dev/sda2 /mnt

What this command does:

  • mount: Mounts a partition

  • /dev/sda2: The partition to mount (your root partition)

  • /mnt: The mount point (directory where partition becomes accessible)

  • After this: You can access root partition at /mnt

    # Mount EFI
mkdir -p /mnt/boot/efi
mount /dev/sda1 /mnt/boot/efi

What these commands do:

  • mkdir -p /mnt/boot/efi: Creates directory for EFI mount point
  • -p: Creates parent directories if needed
  • /mnt/boot/efi: Where EFI partition will be mounted
  • mount /dev/sda1 /mnt/boot/efi: Mounts EFI partition
  • /dev/sda1: EFI partition
  • /mnt/boot/efi: Mount point (inside the mounted root partition)

Why mount EFI inside root?

  • Root is mounted at /mnt
  • EFI needs to be at /boot/efi inside the root filesystem
  • So we mount it at /mnt/boot/efi
  • After installation, it will be at /boot/efi in the installed system

Step 5: Desktop Environment Selection

What you'll see:

  • List of available desktop environments
  • Numbered options (1, 2, 3, etc.)

What to do:

  • Type the number for your preferred DE
  • Press Enter

What is a Desktop Environment?

  • Desktop Environment (DE): The graphical interface you interact with
  • Includes: Windows, panels, menus, file manager, settings apps
  • Determines how your desktop looks and works
  • You can change it later, but easier to pick the right one now

Available options:

KDE Plasma:

  • Best for: Users who want lots of customization
  • Features: Highly customizable, feature-rich, traditional desktop
  • Resource usage: Moderate (needs 4GB+ RAM recommended)
  • Look: Modern, Windows-like interface

GNOME:

  • Best for: Users who want a modern, simple interface
  • Features: Clean, minimalist, touch-friendly
  • Resource usage: Moderate (needs 4GB+ RAM recommended)
  • Look: Modern, macOS-like interface

XFCE:

  • Best for: Users with older hardware or who want lightweight system
  • Features: Lightweight, fast, traditional desktop
  • Resource usage: Low (works well with 2GB+ RAM)
  • Look: Traditional, customizable interface

i3:

  • Best for: Advanced users, keyboard-driven workflow
  • Features: Tiling window manager, no mouse needed
  • Resource usage: Very low (works with 1GB+ RAM)
  • Look: Minimal, tiling windows (no overlapping)

Wayfire:

  • Best for: Users who want modern Wayland compositor
  • Features: Modern, 3D effects, Wayland-based
  • Resource usage: Moderate
  • Look: Modern, animated, eye candy

And more...

  • The installer may show additional options
  • Each has different features and resource requirements
  • Choose based on your hardware and preferences

Recommendations:

  • Beginners: KDE Plasma or GNOME (easiest to use)
  • Older hardware: XFCE (lightweight)
  • Advanced users: i3 or other window managers
  • Modern systems: Wayfire or GNOME (Wayland support)

Step 6: Boot Manager Selection

What you'll see:

  • List of boot managers:
  • GRUB (most common)
  • systemd-boot
  • rEFInd
  • Limine

What to do:

  • Type the number for your preferred boot manager
  • Press Enter

What is a boot manager?

  • Boot manager: Program that runs when computer starts
  • What it does: Shows menu to choose which operating system to boot
  • When it runs: Before operating system loads
  • Why needed: Allows you to choose what to boot (if multiple OS installed)

Available boot managers:

GRUB (GNU GRand Unified Bootloader):

  • Most compatible: Works on almost all systems
  • Works with: BIOS and UEFI systems
  • Features: Highly configurable, supports many file systems
  • Best for: Most users, dual-boot systems, maximum compatibility
  • Pros: Works everywhere, very flexible, well-documented
  • Cons: Slightly more complex configuration

systemd-boot:

  • Modern: Part of systemd (modern Linux init system)
  • UEFI only: Requires UEFI firmware (not BIOS)
  • Features: Simple, fast, integrated with systemd
  • Best for: UEFI systems, users who want simplicity
  • Pros: Simple configuration, fast boot, modern
  • Cons: UEFI only, less flexible than GRUB

rEFInd:

  • Beautiful: Graphical boot menu with icons
  • UEFI only: Requires UEFI firmware
  • Features: Auto-detects operating systems, beautiful interface
  • Best for: UEFI systems, users who want nice-looking boot menu
  • Pros: Beautiful interface, auto-detection, easy to use
  • Cons: UEFI only, may need configuration for some setups

Limine:

  • Lightweight: Small and fast
  • Secure Boot: Works with Secure Boot (can be configured)
  • Features: Fast, simple, Secure Boot support
  • Best for: Users who want lightweight boot manager, Secure Boot users
  • Pros: Lightweight, fast, Secure Boot support
  • Cons: Less common, may need manual configuration

Recommendations:

  • Most users: GRUB (works everywhere, most compatible)
  • UEFI systems, want simplicity: systemd-boot (modern, simple)
  • UEFI systems, want beauty: rEFInd (beautiful interface)
  • Want Secure Boot: Limine (Secure Boot support)
  • Not sure?: Choose GRUB (safest choice)

Step 7: Kernel Selection

What you'll see:

  • List of available kernels:
  • linux-cachyos (BORE scheduler)
  • linux-cachyos-eevdf
  • linux-cachyos-sched-ext
  • And more...

What to do:

  • Type the number for your preferred kernel
  • Press Enter

What is a kernel?

  • Kernel: Core of the operating system
  • What it does: Manages hardware, memory, processes, system resources
  • Why it matters: Different kernels have different features and performance
  • Can you change later?: Yes, you can install different kernels later

Available kernels:

linux-cachyos (BORE scheduler):

  • Default: Recommended for most users
  • Scheduler: Uses BORE scheduler (Burst-Oriented Response Enhancer)
  • Best for: Desktop use, gaming, interactive tasks
  • Features: Lower latency, better responsiveness, optimized for desktop
  • Performance: Better for gaming and desktop use
  • Recommendation: Choose this if you're not sure

linux-cachyos-eevdf:

  • Scheduler: Uses EEVDF scheduler (Earliest Eligible Virtual Deadline First)
  • Best for: General desktop use, servers, balanced workloads
  • Features: Fair scheduling, modern algorithm, good for multitasking
  • Performance: Good all-around performance
  • When to choose: If you want modern fair scheduler

linux-cachyos-sched-ext:

  • Scheduler: Uses sched-ext (extensible scheduler framework)
  • Best for: Advanced users, custom scheduler development
  • Features: Allows custom schedulers, experimental
  • Performance: Depends on scheduler used
  • When to choose: Only if you know what you're doing

Other kernels:

  • May include LTS (Long Term Support) versions
  • May include different scheduler options
  • Check descriptions in installer for details

Recommendations:

  • Most users: linux-cachyos (BORE scheduler) - best for desktop and gaming
  • Want modern fair scheduler: linux-cachyos-eevdf
  • Advanced users: linux-cachyos-sched-ext (if you need custom schedulers)
  • Not sure?: Choose linux-cachyos (default, recommended)

Note: You can install multiple kernels and choose at boot. The installer just sets the default.

Step 8: User Account Creation

What you'll see:

  • Prompts asking for information:
  • Username
  • Password
  • Hostname
  • Root password (optional)

What is a user account?

  • User account: Your login identity on the system
  • Each user has their own files, settings, and permissions
  • You'll use this to log in after installation
  • Can have multiple users on one system

What to do:

  1. Enter username (lowercase, no spaces)

Username rules:

  • Lowercase letters only: a-z
  • Numbers allowed: 0-9
  • Hyphens allowed: - (but not at start or end)
  • No spaces: Use hyphens instead
  • No special characters: No @, #, $, etc.

Good examples:

  • john
  • johndoe
  • john-doe
  • john123

Bad examples:

  • John Doe (has space)
  • JohnDoe (has capital letters)
  • john@doe (has special character)
  • -john (starts with hyphen)

Why these rules?

  • Linux usernames are case-sensitive
  • Some characters have special meaning in Linux
  • Lowercase prevents confusion
  • Simpler is better

** Important**: Username is hard to change later! Choose carefully.

  1. Enter password (twice for confirmation)

Password requirements:

  • Minimum length: 8 characters (recommended)
  • Can include: Letters, numbers, symbols
  • Case-sensitive: Password is different from password

Strong password tips:

  • Use mix of uppercase and lowercase
  • Include numbers
  • Include symbols (!, @, #, etc.)
  • Don't use dictionary words
  • Don't use personal information
  • Make it memorable but secure

Example strong password:

  • MyP@ssw0rd!2024 (but don't use this exact one!)

Why enter twice?

  • Prevents typos
  • Ensures you typed it correctly
  • If they don't match, installer will ask again

** Important**:

  • Remember this password! You'll need it to log in
  • Write it down securely if you might forget
  • You can't recover it if lost (would need to reset)
  1. Enter hostname (computer name)

What is a hostname?

  • Hostname: Name for your computer on the network
  • Used to identify your computer
  • Shows up in network lists
  • Can be changed later

Hostname rules:

  • Similar to username rules
  • Lowercase letters, numbers, hyphens
  • No spaces or special characters
  • Usually 1-63 characters

Good examples:

  • cachyos-pc
  • my-laptop
  • desktop-01
  • johns-computer

Default hostname:

  • Installer may suggest a default (like cachyos)
  • You can use the default or change it
  • Default is usually fine
  1. Enter root password (optional, can leave empty)

What is root?

  • Root: Administrator account (superuser)
  • Has full system access
  • Can do anything on the system
  • Dangerous if misused

Root password options:

  • Leave empty (recommended): Use sudo instead
  • sudo lets you run commands as root when needed
  • More secure (requires your password each time)
  • Prevents accidental system changes
  • Set password: Creates root account with password
  • Can log in as root directly
  • Less secure (root access without your user password)
  • Not recommended for beginners

Recommendation:

  • Leave root password empty
  • Use sudo for administrative tasks
  • Safer and more user-friendly

Step 9: Installation Confirmation

What you'll see:

  • Summary of all selections
  • Confirmation prompt

What to do:

  • Review the summary
  • Type "yes" to confirm
  • Press Enter

Step 10: Installation Progress

What you'll see:

  • Progress messages
  • Package download progress
  • Installation status

What's happening:

  • Packages are downloaded
  • System is installed
  • Configuration is applied
  • Bootloader is installed

Time estimate:

  • Similar to GUI installer (10-60 minutes)

Step 11: Installation Complete

What you'll see:

  • "Installation complete" message
  • Option to reboot

What to do:

  1. Type "reboot" or press Ctrl+D
  2. Remove USB drive when prompted
  3. Press Enter to reboot

Post-Installation Steps

Step 1: First Boot

After installation completes:

  1. Remove USB drive when computer restarts
  2. Computer should boot into CachyOS
  3. You'll see the login screen
  4. Log in with your username and password

If computer doesn't boot:

  • Check BIOS/UEFI boot order
  • Verify bootloader was installed correctly
  • See troubleshooting section

Step 2: Initial System Update

After logging in, update your system:

# Update package database and upgrade (recommended)
# Note: Always use -Syu together to avoid dependency issues
sudo pacman -Syu

What this does:

  • Downloads latest package information
  • Upgrades all installed packages
  • Applies any security updates

Time estimate: 5-15 minutes depending on updates available

Step 3: Install Additional Software

Use CachyOS Hello (if available):

  1. Launch CachyOS Hello from application menu
  2. Browse available packages
  3. Install what you need

Or use pacman:

# Search for packages
pacman -Ss package-name

# Install packages
sudo pacman -S package-name

Step 4: Configure Hardware

Install graphics drivers (if needed):

# Use chwd for hardware detection
sudo chwd -h

# Or install manually
# For NVIDIA:
sudo pacman -S nvidia

# For AMD (usually works out of box):
# No action needed

See CachyOS Tools Guide for more on chwd.

Step 5: Customize Your Desktop

Explore your desktop environment:

  • Change themes and wallpapers
  • Configure panels and docks
  • Set up keyboard shortcuts
  • Install additional applications

See Switching Desktop Environments guide for customization options.

Step 6: Enable Additional Services (Optional)

Enable useful services:

# Enable network time sync
sudo systemctl enable --now systemd-timesyncd

# Enable firewall (if installed)
sudo systemctl enable --now ufw

# Enable other services as needed

Troubleshooting Installation

Problem: USB Doesn't Boot

Symptoms:

  • Computer boots to existing OS
  • No boot menu appears
  • USB not detected

Solutions:

  1. Check BIOS/UEFI settings:
  • Enable USB boot
  • Set USB as first boot device
  • Disable Secure Boot (temporarily)
  1. Try different USB port:
  • Use USB 2.0 port if USB 3.0 doesn't work
  • Try ports on different sides of computer
  1. Recreate bootable USB:
  • Use different tool (Etcher, dd, Rufus)
  • Try different USB drive
  • Verify ISO download wasn't corrupted
  1. Check USB drive:
  • Test USB on another computer
  • Try different USB drive

Problem: Installation Fails or Freezes

Symptoms:

  • Installer stops responding
  • Error messages appear
  • Installation doesn't complete

Solutions:

  1. Check internet connection:
  • Installation requires internet
  • Verify connection is stable
  • Try wired connection instead of WiFi
  1. Try different installation method:
  • If GUI fails, try CLI installer
  • If CLI fails, try GUI installer
  1. Check disk space:
  • Ensure enough free space (40+ GB)
  • Free up space if needed
  1. Try different boot options:
  • Boot with "safe graphics" option
  • Boot with "nomodeset" option
  • Try fallback initramfs
  1. Check hardware compatibility:
  • Verify CPU is supported
  • Check for known hardware issues
  • Try on different computer if possible

Problem: Graphics Issues During Installation

Symptoms:

  • Black screen
  • Distorted display
  • Installer not visible

Solutions:

  1. Boot with safe graphics:
  • Select "Boot CachyOS (safe graphics)" from boot menu
  • Or add kernel parameter: nomodeset
  1. Try different graphics mode:
  • If using NVIDIA, try nouveau drivers
  • If using AMD, try different driver version
  1. Use different display:
  • Try different monitor
  • Try different video port (HDMI, DisplayPort, etc.)

Problem: Installation Completes But System Won't Boot

Symptoms:

  • Installation finishes successfully
  • Computer doesn't boot after restart
  • Bootloader errors

Solutions:

  1. Check boot order:
  • Verify hard drive is first in boot order
  • Remove USB drive

How to check boot order:

  • Enter BIOS/UEFI settings (usually F2, F10, Del, or Esc during boot)
  • Navigate to "Boot" or "Boot Order" section
  • Verify your hard drive (not USB) is listed first
  • Save changes and exit

Why this matters:

  • If USB is first, computer tries to boot from USB every time
  • Hard drive must be first to boot into installed system
  • USB should only be first when installing
  1. Verify bootloader installation:
  • Boot from USB again
  • Check if partitions were created correctly
  • Reinstall bootloader if needed

How to verify partitions:

# Boot from USB/live environment
# List partitions
lsblk

What to look for:

  • Your hard drive should show partitions
  • Should see root partition (/) and EFI partition (if UEFI)
  • Partitions should have correct sizes

Example good output:

NAME   SIZE TYPE MOUNTPOINT
sda    500G disk
├─sda1  512M part  (EFI partition)
└─sda2  100G part  (Root partition)
  1. Check UEFI/BIOS settings:
  • Enable UEFI boot (if UEFI installation)
  • Disable Secure Boot (if causing issues)
  • Check CSM/Legacy settings

UEFI vs Legacy BIOS:

  • UEFI: Modern boot system (used on computers from 2012+)
  • Legacy BIOS: Older boot system (pre-2012 computers)
  • CSM: Compatibility Support Module (allows Legacy boot on UEFI systems)

How to check:

  • Enter BIOS/UEFI settings
  • Look for "Boot Mode" or "UEFI/Legacy" setting
  • Should match your installation type (UEFI or Legacy)

Secure Boot:

  • What it is: Security feature that verifies boot software
  • Problem: Can prevent Linux from booting
  • Solution: Disable Secure Boot (can re-enable later if needed)
  1. Reinstall bootloader: 
    # Boot from USB
# Mount your installation
# Reinstall GRUB or other bootloader

Step-by-step bootloader reinstall:

Step 1: Boot from USB

  • Insert USB drive
  • Boot from USB (use boot menu or BIOS)

Step 2: Mount your installation

# Find your root partition
lsblk

# Mount root partition (replace sda2 with your partition)
sudo mount /dev/sda2 /mnt

# If UEFI, mount EFI partition
sudo mount /dev/sda1 /mnt/boot/efi

What this does:

  • Makes your installed system accessible
  • /mnt is a temporary mount point
  • Allows you to work on your installed system

Step 3: Reinstall bootloader

# For GRUB
sudo grub-install --root-directory=/mnt /dev/sda
sudo grub-mkconfig -o /mnt/boot/grub/grub.cfg

# For systemd-boot
sudo bootctl --root=/mnt install

# For rEFInd
sudo refind-install --root /mnt

# For Limine
sudo limine-install /dev/sda

What this does:

  • Reinstalls bootloader to your hard drive
  • Regenerates boot menu
  • Fixes boot configuration

Step 4: Reboot

sudo reboot
  • Remove USB when prompted
  • System should boot normally

Problem: Can't Connect to Internet During Installation

Symptoms:

  • Installer can't download packages
  • Network not detected
  • Installation fails at package download

Solutions:

  1. Check network connection:
  • Verify cable is connected (wired)
  • Check WiFi password (wireless)
  • Test connection in live environment

  1. Configure network manually:

    # In live environment, before installing
# Configure WiFi
wifi-menu

# Or configure wired connection
dhcpcd

  2. Use different network:

  • Try different WiFi network
  • Use mobile hotspot
  • Use wired connection

Problem: Partitioning Errors

Symptoms:

  • Can't create partitions
  • Partitioning fails
  • Disk errors

Solutions:

  1. Check disk health:

    # Check disk for errors
sudo badblocks -v /dev/sda

  2. Try different partitioning method:

  • If automatic fails, try manual
  • If manual fails, try automatic
  1. Check disk is not in use:
  • Unmount all partitions
  • Close any disk management tools
  • Ensure no other OS is using the disk
  1. Try different disk:
  • If possible, test with different drive
  • Verify disk is not failing

Getting More Help

If you're still having issues:

  1. Check CachyOS Wiki: https://wiki.cachyos.org/
  2. Search CachyOS Forum: https://discuss.cachyos.org/
  3. Ask on Discord: Join CachyOS Discord server
  4. Check logs: Installation logs may contain error details
  5. Report bug: If it's a bug, report it on GitHub

Additional Resources

Summary

This guide covered:

  1. Pre-installation preparation - Backups, compatibility checks
  2. Booting from USB - Getting to the installer
  3. GUI installation - Step-by-step Calamares installer
  4. CLI installation - Command-line installation method
  5. Post-installation steps - First boot and setup
  6. Troubleshooting - Common issues and solutions

Key Takeaways:

  • Always backup your data before installing
  • Choose the installation method that suits your experience level
  • Be patient during installation - it can take time
  • Verify your selections before confirming installation
  • Don't interrupt the installation process

Next Steps:

  • Update your system after installation
  • Install additional software you need
  • Configure your hardware (graphics drivers, etc.)
  • Customize your desktop environment
  • Explore CachyOS features and optimizations

This guide is based on the CachyOS Wiki and expanded with detailed explanations for beginners. For the most up-to-date installation instructions, always refer to the official CachyOS documentation.

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