Artix Linux: The Arch-based distribution without systemd

Introduction

In the Linux distribution ecosystem, few options manage to combine the power of Arch Linux with an alternative philosophy to the systemd init system. Artix Linux arises precisely to offer that alternative, maintaining the simplicity and rolling-release package model of Arch, but replacing systemd with other init options such as OpenRC, runit, or s6. This feature attracts users seeking greater control, transparency, and a more traditional approach to service management.

What is Artix Linux?

Artix Linux is an independent distribution that derives directly from the Arch Linux repositories. Its main goal is to provide an experience identical to Arch in terms of package access and updates, but without obliging the user to use systemd as the service manager. The project began in 2017 and has grown thanks to a community committed to the diversity of init systems and freedom of choice.

Philosophy and goals

The developers of Artix follow the KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) principles and total transparency. They believe the user should decide which components form their system, especially init, which is the first process executed after the kernel. By offering multiple alternatives, Artix allows adapting the environment to low-consumption servers, desktop workstations, or even embedded devices, without the overhead sometimes associated with systemd.

Main features

Package base identical to Arch Linux, with access to the AUR (Arch User Repository).
Available init variants: OpenRC (default), runit, and s6.
Rolling-release model, guaranteeing always the latest software versions.
Installer based on simple scripts, similar to Arch Install Scripts, but with preconfigured profiles for each init.
Full compatibility with Arch packages, allowing the use of the same PKGBUILDs and tools such as pacman and makepkg.
Focus on privacy and minimalism, avoiding unnecessary services by default.

Advantages of using Artix Linux

Freedom of choice of the init system, which reduces complexity and allows adjusting the boot according to specific needs.
Fewer background processes when using lightweight init like runit or s6, which can translate into better performance on modest hardware.
Continuous updates without needing to reinstall the system, keeping software always up to date.
Active community and detailed documentation that facilitate troubleshooting and advanced customization.
Ideal for users who already know Arch but want to experiment with different init systems without losing package compatibility.

Desktop environments and variants

Artix does not impose any particular desktop environment; the user can install GNOME, KDE Plasma, Xfce, LXQt, i3, bspwm, or any other window manager available in the Arch repositories. Moreover, the project offers official ISO images with different preconfigured desktops and each of the supported inits, which simplifies the first installation.

ISO with OpenRC + Xfce (balance between resources and functionality).
ISO with runit + LXQt (focus on low RAM consumption).
ISO with s6 + i3wm (for users who prefer tiling environments and maximum speed).

How to install Artix Linux

Download the appropriate ISO from the official Artix Linux website, selecting the desired init and desktop.
Create a bootable USB medium using tools such as dd or Rufus.
Boot the system from the USB and follow the installation script, which partitions the disk, configures the filesystem, and installs the base system.
During installation, choose the service manager (OpenRC, runit, or s6) and set the timezone, keyboard, and hostname.
Install the bootloader (GRUB or systemd-boot, although the latter is avoided in favor of more neutral options).
Reboot, remove the installation media, and log into the new Artix environment.
Once inside, use pacman -Syu to update and pacman -S to install additional packages or desktop environments as preferred.

Community and support

Although Artix is a smaller distribution than Arch, it has active forums, an IRC/Discord channel, and a complete wiki that guides both newcomers and advanced users. The developers regularly publish updates of the init profiles and ensure that Arch packages are synchronized without significant delays. Moreover, the existence of multiple inits allows the community to test and report specific issues, improving the robustness of each alternative.

Conclusion

Artix Linux represents an attractive option for those who value the freedom of choice and simplicity that Arch Linux offers, but prefer to avoid systemd in favor of more traditional or lightweight init systems. Its rolling-release model, full compatibility with the AUR, and the variety of desktops and inits available make it a versatile distribution, suitable for both high-performance workstations and low-resource equipment. If you seek a Linux experience that lets you control every aspect of boot and the system without losing access to the latest packages, Artix Linux deserves a serious try.

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