THERE are those Linux distributions which will install in a coffee break, with little intervention required from the user. And there are those which demand plentiful reading beforehand, a thorough knowledge of one's hardware and a calm, clear mind. Arch Linux 2008 falls into the latter category – and I love it.

I have been using Linux for more than a decade now but have only recently got around to trying Arch.

Arch is “a lightweight and flexible Linux distribution that tries to Keep It Simple”, according to the website, but new Linux users take note: “Simple” is not the same as “Easy”.

I strongly recommend printing off the beginner's guide as a reference tool for use during your installation. It is perfectly possible to install Arch simply by following the guide to the letter – I know, because this is exactly what I have done.

I ought to explain here that I do not plan to walk you through my installation. The very nature of Arch means that it lets you, the user, take complete control of and responsibility for your computer.

More Here