How to set up archcraft with bcdedit

Setting up Archcraft, a minimal and versatile Arch Linux-based distribution, involves several steps to ensure it runs smoothly alongside Windows. If you’re looking to dual-boot Archcraft with Windows, you’ll need to utilize the Windows Boot Manager and BCDEdit (Boot Configuration Data Editor). This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.

What is Archcraft?

Archcraft is a lightweight distribution based on Arch Linux, designed for users who prefer a simple and elegant interface. It comes with a selection of window managers, making it highly customizable. Users can enjoy a fast, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing environment.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

• A USB drive (at least 4GB) to create a bootable Archcraft installation medium.
• A computer with Windows already installed.
• Basic knowledge of navigating through the command line and Windows.

Installing Archcraft

1. Download Archcraft ISO:
   • Visit the official Archcraft website and download the latest ISO image.
2. Create a Bootable USB:
   • Use tools like Rufus or Balena Etcher to create a bootable USB drive from the downloaded ISO file.
3. Boot from USB:
   • Restart your computer and boot from the USB drive. You may need to change the boot order in BIOS/UEFI settings.
4. Install Archcraft:
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to install Archcraft on a separate partition. Ensure you do not overwrite your Windows installation.

Setting Up BCDEdit

After installing Archcraft, you need to configure BCDEdit to include Archcraft in the Windows boot manager.

Check Existing Boot Entries

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type the following command to list existing boot entries:
   bash

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   bcdedit /enum

3. Note down the identifier (GUID) of the Windows boot entry you want to keep.

Create a New Boot Entry

1. Find the partition where Archcraft is installed (usually, it’s something like \Device\HarddiskVolumeX). You can find it using:
   bash

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   wmic logicaldisk get name, description

2. Create a new boot entry for Archcraft using the following command. Replace <identifier> with a GUID of your choice and <partition> with your Archcraft installation partition:
   bash

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   bcdedit /copy {current} /d "Archcraft"


   This command will output a new identifier (GUID) for Archcraft.

3. Set the path to the Archcraft kernel. Assuming that Archcraft is installed on the partition noted earlier:
   bash

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   bcdedit /set <new-guid> device partition=<partition>
bcdedit /set <new-guid> path \vmlinuz-linux
bcdedit /set <new-guid> description "Archcraft"
bcdedit /set <new-guid> osdevice partition=<partition>
bcdedit /set <new-guid> bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures


Set Archcraft as Default (Optional)

If you want Archcraft to be the default OS when your computer boots:

Booting into Archcraft

1. Restart your computer.
2. You should now see the Windows Boot Manager with an option for Archcraft.
3. Select Archcraft to boot into it.

Conclusion

Setting up Archcraft alongside Windows using BCDEdit allows you to enjoy the benefits of both operating systems. With this guide, you’ve learned how to install Archcraft and configure it in the Windows boot manager. Enjoy your experience with Archcraft, and customize it to fit your needs!

If you encounter any issues during the setup process, be sure to consult the Archcraft documentation or community forums for support. Happy computing!