A comprehensive guide documenting my transition from Windows to Arch Linux + Hyprland
This repository contains my personal documentation of switching from Windows 11 to Arch Linux with Hyprland as my daily driver for development, gaming, and productivity. After over a year of using Linux, I've compiled everything I've learned into this guide to help others and serve as my own reference.
Author: Pahasara DvNET (aka shinzo)
Last Updated: September 5, 2025
This guide covers my complete Linux setup journey, including:
- Why I chose Arch Linux over Windows 11
- Why Hyprland as my window manager
- Honest pros and cons of my setup
- Arch Linux installation essentials
- Post-installation setup and optimization
- Essential package recommendations
- Wireless connectivity with NetworkManager
- MAC address randomization
- DNS encryption with DNSCrypt
- Firewall configuration with UFW
- Bluetooth disabling for privacy
- TLP power management configuration
- GameMode setup for optimal gaming
- Steam configuration with multilib
- Intel GPU optimization (Iris Xe specific)
- Automated pacman cache management
- Journal size limits
- Orphaned package cleanup
- System health monitoring
This guide is designed for:
- Linux enthusiasts with basic command-line knowledge
- Users considering the switch from Windows to Arch Linux
- Anyone interested in a Hyprland-based desktop setup
- Developers looking for a customizable development environment
Note: This is not a complete beginner's guide. I assume you have prior Linux experience and familiarity with the Arch Wiki.
- CPU: Intel i7-1355U with Iris Xe Graphics
- OS: Arch Linux
- WM: Hyprland
- Use Cases: Development, Gaming, Daily Usage
This documentation is available in multiple formats:
- 📄 PDF - For easy reading and offline reference
- 📝 DOCX - For editing and collaboration
- Personal Reference - Quick setup guide for future installations
- Community Sharing - Help others on similar journeys
- Learning Documentation - Track my Linux learning progress
- Time Saving - Speed up the configuration process
This configuration is optimized for my specific hardware and use cases. Your mileage may vary, and you should always refer to the official Arch Wiki for the most up-to-date information.
Found an error or have suggestions? Feel free to open an issue or submit a pull request. This is a living document that I'll continue to update as I learn more.
If you have questions about my setup or want to share your Linux journey, feel free to reach out!
- 🎮 Discord Server: Join with DvNET Geek
Happy Computing! 🚀
"With great power comes great responsibility" - and Arch Linux gives you both.