What is Manjaro Linux?

Manjaro Linux is an open-source Linux operating system based on Arch OS. It provides user privacy, hardware control, and a new computing experience. You can easily install it on devices that follow x86-64 and ARM architectures. Manjaro has a rolling release model; through this, users can get ongoing updates without upgrading to a new operating system version. Both beginners and experienced users can use this Linux distro; it is easy to use, easy to install, and easy to maintain. It comes up with a variety of desktop environments, such as Xfce, KDE Plasma, GNOME, and more.

What is Manjaro Linux?

Based on Arch Linux, Manjaro manages its repository and provides additional capacity and testing platforms to ensure system reliability. It has several pre-installed applications and tools that you don't need to install several applications separately. Using the Pacman package manager, which has been derived from Arch Linux, Manjaro complements Pamac package managers to simplify software management. It has a strong and active community that offers support through forums, wikis, and other resources. Manjaro includes automated hardware identification and configuration tools that make it easier to configure multiple systems.

Features

Manjaro provides a faster and more efficient computing experience. It easily accesses the latest software due to its rolling release model. You don't need to reinstall the OS to get the update. This was done because Manjaro adapted the Rolling release model. Manjaro users can create the extensive AUR, a community-managed repository that allows you to compile packages from source. Manjaro simplifies the installation process and makes it easier for novice users.

The default package manager, Pamac, offers features such as easy software installation, dependency management, and support for snaps and flatpacks. Manjaro offers long-term support (LTS) and multiple real-time kernels. These real-time cores optimize microprocessor time for critical tasks.

How to Install Manjaro Linux?

Installing Manjaro Linux is a simple process. Here are all the necessary steps provided:

  • Go to Manjaro's official website and download the ISO file, then go to the Downloads Page section and choose a desktop environment like Xfce, KDE or GNOME. Next, download the ISO image.
  • Create a Bootable USB that has at least 8 GB of free space. Now, install the Etcher tool and create a bootable live USB.
  • Insert the bootable USB and restart your computer. The Manjaro live environment will load.

Steps to Install Manjaro:

  • Click on the Install Manjaro icon showing on the desktop.
  • Choose your language, keyboard layout, and time zone.
  • Select your installation type and set up your user account and password.
  • Choose your installation location and confirm the installation settings.
  • Click Install and wait for the installation to complete.
  • After completing the installation task, remove the USB drive and reboot your system. Now that you have successfully installed Manjaro Linux enjoy it!

Manjaro Linux provides a user-friendly desktop interface. That's why it recommends going with the recommended system requirements, not the minimum system requirements. The recommended hardware specifications are given here:

Hardware Requirements

  • 1 GB of RAM
  • 30 GB of hard drive space
  • 1 GHz CPU
  • High-definition graphics card and monitor
  • A strong broadband internet connection

The desktop environment you choose, such as Xfce, KDE, or GNOME, will also impact system performance.

  • Xfce uses about 390 MB of system memory.
  • KDE Plasma covers about 455 MB of system memory.
  • GNOME uses about 447 MB of system memory.

Advantages

Here are some of the main advantages provided by Manjaro Linux:

  • Manjaro offers a simple installation process and an intuitive interface. Even if you are new to Linux, you will find it easy.
  • Unlike fixed-release distribution, Manjaro follows a rolling-release model. This means you get constant updates without having to upgrade to a major version, and your system stays up to date on the latest software.
  • Manjaro is based on Arch Linux, which has a large repository of software packages. The package manager makes it easy to install and manage applications.
  • Manjaro aims to balance state-of-the-art software and complex systems. Users are tested before pushing updates, reducing the risk of damage to your system.
  • Manjaro offers three official desktop environments: Gnome, XFCE and KDE. You can choose the one which you like.
  • It provides easy access to the Manjaro AUR, where you can find packages contributed by the community.

History of Manjaro Linux

Here's a brief history of Manjaro Linux:

Manjaro Linux was founded by Philipp M�ller, Roland Singer and Bernhard Landauer in July 2011. German software developer Philipp M�ller started the project with an interest in creating an Arch-based distribution that would be easier for users to install and maintain compared to vanilla Arc Linux. The main goal of Manjaro is to provide an Arch Linux derivative that retains Arch's power and flexibility while simplifying installation and system management. It includes graphical installers, pre-configured desktop environments, and software and system configuration management tools.

The first stable release of Manjaro Linux, version 0.8.0 "Ascella," was launched in August 2012. It featured a rolling release model derived from Arch Linux, but with further testing and stability improvements over the years in terms of its balance between state-of-the-art software updates and system stability Manjaro gained popularity among users. Its user-friendly approach has attracted Linux newcomers and experienced users looking for an intuitive Arch-based experience. Manjaro offers several official flavors of desktop environments, catering to different user preferences and hardware requirements.

Manjaro Linux follows a rolling release model, providing continuous updates to its latest software versions, security patches and enhancements without the need for major release upgrades Unlike Arch Linux, which provides updates shortly after testing, Manjaro adds new tests through different branches (stable, test, unstable). Ensure that the former is stable Manjaro emphasizes accessibility through graphical installers, user-friendly tools such as Pamac for package management, and a selection of software prepared in its repositories, with easy access, including the Arc User Repository (AUR).

Manjaro Official Editions

There are three official versions of Manjaro Linux, those are described here:

  1. XFCE: This version is known for its low speed and limited resources. It provides a robust, lightweight, and highly customizable options.
  2. KDE Plasma: This version has a modern and visually appealing UI and has various customization options. It is known for its powerful equipment and sleek design.
  3. GNOME: This version of Manjaro uses the GNOME desktop environment, which provides a clean and easy-to-navigate user interface. It focuses on simplicity and performance. It is designed for modern computers and offers an intuitive user experience.

Manjaro Community Edition

Here are some popular editions that are provided by Manjaro Community Edition:

  1. Cinnamon: This Cinnamon edition comes with a number of several features, such as a user-friendly traditional desktop environment. It also provides a classical desktop with a taskbar, which is customizable.
  2. i3: This Community edition provides a lightweight and customizable window manager. This is the best option who want maximum tasks completed with keyboard.
  3. Budgie: This edition of Manjaro Linux offers a modern and elegant desktop environment. It is simple and easy to use. Any novice user can easily install it and start using it.
  4. Deepin: It provides a visually appealing and intuitive desktop environment, and users can seamlessly navigate this community edition of Manjaro Linux.
  5. Mate: It comes up with a classical desktop environment, which is the continuation of GNOME 2.

What is the Rolling Release Model in Manjaro Linux?

The rolling release model is a software distribution that continuously updates and provides new features, improvements, and bug fixes. Here's a detailed explanation of this model:

Advantages

The software program is continually up to date. Users usually have get entry to to the cutting-edge software program while not having to watch for every other major release.

Users can access its new capabilities and improvements as they grow to be strong and to be had. This is useful for users who need modern software program competencies and improvements. Users have get entry to to the modern-day software program, together with the ultra-modern functions, overall performance enhancements and safety features. There are not any predominant recycling processes that can be time-consuming and, from time to time, dangerous. Innovations are usually small in scope. There is no want to update the machine from version to version. The machine is constantly converting.

Disadvantages

As updates are launched as soon as they grow to be available, there may be a better danger of encountering insects or inconsistencies compared to the constant-launch version, in which updates are significantly examined previous to release

Users need to regularly update the rolling release model to make sure protection and stability. This can be a hassle for those users who need to deal with different frequent troubles. Managing dependencies can from time to time be more tough, as updating one bundle deal also can require updating others, that could reason compatibility problems.

What is Pacman in Manjaro?

Pacman is a package manager, and it's utilized by Arch Linux and its derivatives, which consist of Manjaro Linux. It manages software program packages on those distributions. Here are some key functions of Pacman:

Features

  • In Manjaro, Pacman is used to install software program applications from the legitimate repository.
  • It is used to remove packages and dependencies.
  • Pacman handles package deal improvements by checking for brand-new versions in the repositories.
  • Pacman fixes dependency without creating any hassle on his own. When putting in a package, Pacman assessments for dependencies and installs any necessary programs to make sure that the software program works nicely.
  • Pacman uses the database to hold the tune of installed packages and dependencies, which enables you to save your conflicts and maintain gadget balance.

Command-Line Interface

Pacman provides some commands for package management operations. Here are several commands that enable you to perform a specific task:

Commands

1. If you want to install a package, use the below command:

2. If you want to remove a package, use this command:

3. Use this command to update the package list and upgrade all installed packages to their latest versions:

4. To see Queries installed packages:

5. To search for packages which are matching a keyword in the repositories.

Advantages

The configuration file of Pacman enables users to manipulate repositories and configure other package management settings. Arch Linux and Manjaro have repositories where Pacman retrieves packages.

Releases

VersionCodenameRelease DateFeatures
0.110-07-2011This version supports only Xfce and KDE plasma editions.
0.8.020-08-2012
0.8.1Askella21-09-2012
0.8.210-11-2012
0.8.324-12-2012
0.8.425-02-2013
0.8.513-04-2013
0.8.602-06-2013
0.8.726-08-2013
0.8.824-11-2013
0.8.923-02-2014This version support LUKS and LVM partition encryption. Also upgraded UEFI compatibility, and improved filesystem detection and management.
0.8.1009-06-2014
0.8.1101-12-2014
0.8.1206-02-2015
0.8.1314-06-2015
15.09Bellatrix27-09-2015
15.12Capella22-12-2015
16.06Daniella06-06-2016
16.06.111-06-2016
16.08Ellada31-08-2016
16.10Fringilla31-10-2016
17.0Gellivara07-03-2017The first official version of the GNOME desktop environment.
17.1Hakoila31-12-2017It was pre-installed on the Spitfire Manjaro Notebook by Station X.
18.0Illyria30-10-2018
18.1.0Juhraya12-09-2019This version provides an option to choose LibreOffice and FreeOffice during installation.

Conclusion

Manjaro Linux is a user-friendly Linux distribution based on Arch Linux. It includes the features of the Arch Linux distro. This Linux distro is suitable for both beginners and experienced users. It has a rolling release model and multiple desktop environment options, which make it robust package management.






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