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Syntax990 edited this page Sep 18, 2023 · 10 revisions

SYN-OS Image

Overview

SYN-OS is a compact distribution based on Arch Linux, meticulously crafted by William Hayward-Holland (Syntax990). This operating system offers a streamlined and highly adaptable desktop environment by integrating Tint2 and Openbox. One of its unique strengths is its ability to optimise resource usage and enhance performance, making it an excellent choice for reviving outdated hardware while still being able to run modern packages. Additionally, SYN-OS is optimised to provide exceptional control and performance on advanced systems.

This project is suitable for individuals seeking complete control over their devices. It is built entirely on vanilla Arch Linux and utilise well-known utilities and relatively simple bash scripts. My goal is to provide an installation process that allows users to easily adapt and customise the system to their specific needs. I hope that you will find value in using SYN-OS or, perhaps unintentionally, learn a great deal from it. I have dedicated a significant amount of time to learning Arch Linux and have built numerous systems, and I believe no other installer compares to what I have created. It started as a comprehensive script that I could modify as needed to build Arch, and it has evolved into something truly special.

Getting Started

To craft your own SYN-OS ISO using the SYN-ISO-PROFILE, adhere to the following instructions:

  1. Clone the Repository: Clone or download this repository to your local environment.
git clone https://github.com/syn990/SYN-OS.git
  1. Ensure Necessary Dependencies: Check if all required dependencies, such as mkarchiso, are already installed. If not, install them before moving forward.
sudo pacman -S archiso
  1. Modify the SYN-ISO-PROFILE: The SYN-ISO-PROFILE serves as the blueprint for your custom ISO. Tailor it to your preferences by choosing your package selection, configuring dot files, and implementing any additional adjustments.
  2. Populate the airootfs Directory: Any files you want to be present on the ISO should be copied into the airootfs/root directory. These might be configuration files, scripts, or other assets.
cp YOUR_FILES SYN-OS/SYN-ISO-PROFILE/airootfs/root/
  1. Adjust the Installer Scripts: Alter the installer scripts by modifying the relevant variables to correspond with your desired installation settings.
  2. Commence the Build Process: Begin the generation of your personalised ISO by running the build command: sudo mkarchiso -v path/to/SYN-ISO-PROFILE.
sudo mkarchiso -v SYN-OS/SYN-ISO-PROFILE
  1. Patience is Key: Allow the build process to complete. The resulting custom ISO will be located in the out directory, ready for you to explore your tailored SYN-OS experience.

Note: Be aware that the build process can take a significant amount of time, depending on your system's capabilities and the customisation you've implemented.

Please Note

SYN-OS is a continuously evolving project with frequent script updates. Due to its dynamic nature, data-loss incidents and stress, version control is not fully maintained. The project's structure, form, and design goals are subject to constant revision, and comprehensive documentation is currently not under any major development. As such, I may not always have the bandwidth to maintain a perfectly planned project at all times.

License

This project is licensed under the MIT License, granting broad permissions for both creative and commercial use. This implies you are free to utilise, modify, and distribute this software for any purpose, including commercial.

The MIT License, distinct for its simplicity and permissiveness, allows you to build upon this code and even monetise your derivative works without any restrictions. Unlike copyleft licenses like the GPL, the MIT License does not impose a requirement for your derivative works to retain the same license, offering you the flexibility to choose your own licensing terms for any modifications and enhancements.

While we encourage contributions and the sharing of modifications, these are not mandatory under this license. You have the discretion to either keep your modifications private or contribute them back to the community. Although the sharing of improvements is appreciated, the ultimate decision is yours. The MIT License merely provides the freedom for you to make your own decisions regarding your derived works.

For further details, please refer to the LICENSE file in this repository.

Support

For support or general questions, you can reach out to me via LinkedIn or email me at [email protected].

All project-related files, resources, updates, and guidelines are conveniently hosted in a comprehensive, centralised repository.

You are expected to go directly to the The Arch Wiki for resources and instructions that are outside the scope of the project itself. This system is vanilla so all resources found will be relevant.

Clone this wiki locally