CachyOS is a performance-focused Linux distribution based on Arch, optimized for speed, responsiveness, and modern hardware. This guide walks you through installing CachyOS using the official Calamares installer.
===== 🧰 System Requirements =====
^ Type ^ Minimum ^ Recommended ^
| RAM | 3 GB | 8 GB |
| Storage | 30 GB HDD/SSD | 50 GB SSD/NVMe |
| CPU | x86_64 | x86-64-v3 capable |
| GPU | Intel HD / AMD GCN / NVIDIA GTX 950+ | Same or better |
| Internet | Stable connection | 50 Mbps or better |
> ⚠️ **Virtual machines are discouraged.** Use bare metal for best performance.
===== 🌐 Download CachyOS =====
Visit the official site to download the latest ISO:
<code>
https://cachyos.org/download/
</code>
Choose the desktop environment you prefer (e.g., KDE, GNOME, XFCE).
===== 🔧 BIOS/UEFI Setup =====
Before booting the ISO:
* Disable **Secure Boot**
* Disable **CSM / Legacy USB Support**
* Enable **UEFI boot mode**
===== 💻 Boot and Install =====
==== 1. Boot into Live ISO ====
Use a USB tool like Balena Etcher or Ventoy to flash the ISO. Boot your system from the USB stick.
==== 2. Launch the Installer ====
Once in the live environment:
* Open the **Calamares Installer**
* Select **Erase Disk** or **Manual Partitioning**
* Choose your preferred **Boot Manager**
* Set **Language**, **Region**, and **Keyboard Layout**
> 🚫 Avoid “Install alongside” option—it may cause partitioning issues.
==== 3. Select Desktop and Kernel ====
CachyOS lets you choose:
* Desktop Environment (KDE, GNOME, etc.)
* Kernel (default, hardened, performance-tuned)
==== 4. Finalize Installation ====
Review settings and click **Install**. After completion:
* Reboot
* Remove USB stick
===== 🛠️ Post-Install Tips =====
* Update system: `sudo pacman -Syu`
* Install additional apps via `CachyOS Hello` or `pacman`
* Configure Secure Boot if needed (see wiki)
===== 📚 Resources =====
* 🧭 [[https://wiki.cachyos.org/installation/installation_prepare/|CachyOS Preparation Guide]]
* 🖥️ [[https://wiki.cachyos.org/installation/installation_on_root/|Desktop Installation Guide]]
* 💬 [[https://forum.cachyos.org/|CachyOS Community Forum]]