Like Arch Linux, EndeavourOS uses a rolling release model, issuing a constant stream of updates. You install it once, and then update forever.
Like other rolling release Linux distributions, EndeavourOS releases updated installers semi-regularly. These help save on the number of post-install updates required, make install-time changes, and take advantage of new installer tech.
EndeavourOS ‘Galileo’ is the latest refresh, and it makes a number of major changes.
The new ISO replaces Xfce with KDE Plasma in both the live environment (for testing before installation) and the default offline installation.
While Xfce installation remains possible, it now requires an active internet connection to download the necessary packages during installation, as these packages are no longer included in the ISO.
Similarly, there are fewer desktop environments available to pick at install time.
The Sway, Qtile, BSPWM, Openbox, and Worm community editions are no longer available as install options in the installer. The developers responsible for maintaining these editions have since left the project, and no replacement maintainers have stepped up.
Community editions remain installable manually, post-installation, rather than through the installer. No great hassle; the EndeavourOS GitHub provides detailed instructions.
Despite their loss, EndeavourOS ‘Galileo’ lets users install it with one of the following Linux desktop environments:
- KDE Plasma (default offline option)
- Budgie
- Cinnamon
- GNOME
- i3
- LXDE
- LXQT
- Mate
- Xfce
Other changes in EndeavourOS ‘Galilieo’:
- Local Hostname Resolution is enabled for new installs
- Stronger LUKS2 encryption if systemd-boot selected
- No longer possible to install multiple DEs during install
- Package selection screen easier to browse
- Stricter EFI partition permissions to avoid issues with Windows dual-boots
- fstab no longer populated with extraneous defaults in options
- SElinux warnings removed
- EndeavourOS app improvements
- ‘Streamlined’ icons in many EndeavourOS apps
- New update mirrors
Package versions include in the new ISO:
- Calamares 23.11.1.1-1
- Firefox 119.0.1-1
- Linux 6.6.1.arch1-1
- Mesa 1:23.2.1-2
- Xorg-server 21.1.9-1
- Nvidia-dkms 545.29.02-2
Download EndeavourOS Galileo
Download EndeavourOS from the official website.
Those who already use EndeavourOS do not need to “upgrade” as, technically, there’s nothing to upgrade to: this is just a snapshot. Assuming they’ve regularly installed updates, they’re golden.
Similarly, changes made to the ISO regarding installation options and the default offline desktop will only affect new installs; nothing is or will be removed from existing installs.
