====== ⚡ Installing CachyOS on Desktop/Laptop ======

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]]