Installing & Using CachyOS

Published on 2026-05-04

CachyOS is a performance-optimized Arch-based distribution designed for speed and efficiency. Whether you're a gamer or a developer, CachyOS provides a highly tuned kernel and optimized packages that make the system feel snappier than standard Arch Linux.

Installation on Root

For most users, installing CachyOS on a root partition is the best way to ensure stability and performance. Here is the simplified process:

// Root Installation Workflow:

  • Boot: Flash the ISO to a USB and boot into the Live Environment.
  • Launcher: Start the CachyOS Installer from the desktop.
  • Partitioning: Choose "Erase Disk" for a fresh start or "Manual Partitioning" if you have a specific layout (e.g., separate /home).
  • Filesystem: CachyOS defaults to XFS or BTRFS—BTRFS is recommended for snapshot capabilities.
  • Finalize: Set up your locale, timezone, and user account.

Post-Installation & Usage

Once you're inside, CachyOS provides several tools to help you optimize your experience:

  • CachyOS Hello: A welcome app that lets you easily install essential apps, kernels, and drivers.
  • Kernel Selection: You can switch between different optimized kernels (like the Bore kernel) to find the best fit for your hardware.
  • Package Management: Use pacman for standard Arch packages and the CachyOS repositories for optimized binaries.

// Pro Tip:

Regularly update your system using sudo pacman -Syu to keep the performance optimizations current.

For the full detailed technical guide, visit theOfficial CachyOS Wiki.