Manjaro Linux: Arch-Based Rolling Release Made Easier

Manjaro takes Arch Linux’s rolling-release approach, where software is updated continuously instead of in big version jumps, and wraps it in a graphical installer and ready-made desktops. You get recent packages without assembling the system by hand.

Official editions

The x86 download page lists three images provided by the Manjaro team:

• KDE Plasma: a feature-rich, highly configurable desktop.
• Xfce: lighter and more traditional.
• GNOME: a modern, workflow-focused desktop.

Community editions (such as Cinnamon and i3) are listed separately and are maintained by community members rather than the core team.

Rolling release: what it means for you

There is no “version 2” to upgrade to; you simply keep installing updates. That keeps software current, but you should read update announcements before large updates and keep backups. If you prefer to change versions only every couple of years, a fixed release such as Debian or Ubuntu LTS is calmer.

Create the USB and verify

Download the ISO for your edition. If the download page lists a checksum or signature for the image, compare it before writing the stick. On Windows, Rufus writes the image; Ventoy lets you keep it alongside other ISOs.

Install

Boot the live session to test your hardware, then start the installer from the desktop. It can install next to another operating system, but back up your data first and double-check which disk you select.