What Is Void Linux? A Lightweight Linux Distro Explained

Introduction

Void Linux is a unique, independent Linux distribution known for its speed, minimalism, and systemd-free approach. Built for users who value performance and control, Void Linux uses the runit init system and offers a rolling release model, making it a favorite among advanced Linux users and enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, customizable operating system.

In this tutorial, you’ll learn what makes Void Linux stand out, how it compares to other popular distros like Arch, and how to install and configure it for optimal performance. We’ll also address common pitfalls, provide performance benchmarks, and answer frequently asked questions to help you decide if Void Linux is right for you.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you meet the following requirements:

• Basic understanding of Linux concepts and linux commands.
• A computer that meets the minimum system requirements for Void Linux:
  • 64-bit processor
  • 512MB RAM
  • 5GB free disk space
• A reliable internet connection to download the ISO and packages.
• A USB drive (at least 2GB) to create bootable installation media.
• Familiarity with partitioning disks and configuring network settings (helpful but not strictly required)
• How to Work with the Linux File System
• An Introduction to Linux Permissions

What Is Void Linux?

Void Linux is an independent, general-purpose Linux distribution developed entirely by volunteers. Unlike many mainstream distributions, Void is not based on Debian, Ubuntu, or Arch. Instead, it is built from scratch, offering a clean, bloat-free experience. Its most notable features include:

• Systemd-free: Uses the lightweight runit init system instead of systemd, giving users more control over system processes.
• Rolling Release: Always up-to-date with the latest software, without the need for major upgrades.
• XBPS Package Manager: Void uses its own native package manager—xbps (X Binary Package System)—which is fast and flexible.
• Multiple Architectures: Supports x86_64, ARM, and more.
• Musl and Glibc Support: Offers glibc and musl based builds, allowing more control over binary compatibility.

What Is Void Linux Used For?

Void Linux is a versatile distribution that caters to a variety of use cases. Its unique features make it an attractive choice for:

• Advanced users: Void Linux offers a high degree of customizability, allowing advanced users to tailor their system to their specific needs. Its minimalistic approach ensures a clean and efficient system, ideal for those who want to fine-tune their Linux experience.
• Developers: The distribution’s clean environment and rolling release model make it an excellent choice for developers. They can focus on software development without worrying about the underlying system, ensuring a distraction-free coding experience.
• Systemd-free enthusiasts: Void Linux is one of the few distributions that do not use systemd, making it a go-to option for users who prefer alternative init systems like runit. This appeals to users who value simplicity, speed, and transparency in their system processes.
• Lightweight deployments: Void Linux is well-suited for lightweight desktop or server installations where resource efficiency is crucial. Its minimal footprint ensures that the system can run smoothly on older hardware or in resource-constrained environments, making it an excellent choice for embedded systems, older machines, or virtual environments.

Why Use Void Linux?

Is Void Linux Good?

Void Linux is praised for its speed, simplicity, and flexibility. Its runit init system is fast and easy to understand, making system management straightforward. The rolling release model ensures you always have the latest software, and the community-driven approach means bloat is kept to a minimum.

Void Linux vs. Arch Linux

Void Linux and Arch Linux are both popular among advanced users, but they differ in philosophy and implementation.

Here is a table that compares Void Linux and Arch Linux:

Key Differences:

• Void’s runit is simpler and lighter than systemd.
• XBPS is fast and easy to use, but has a smaller repository than Arch’s pacman.
• Void is less beginner-friendly due to limited documentation.

System Requirements & Download

Void Linux is designed to be lightweight and efficient, making it suitable for a wide range of hardware configurations. Before downloading and installing Void Linux, ensure your system meets the minimum system requirements.

Void Linux System Requirements

To ensure a smooth and efficient experience, Void Linux recommends the following system requirements:

• CPU: Void Linux supports a variety of CPU architectures, including x86_64, ARMv6, ARMv7, and aarch64. This allows Void Linux to run on a wide range of devices, from modern laptops to older single-board computers.
• RAM: A minimum of 512MB of RAM is required to run Void Linux, but it is recommended to have at least 1GB for a smoother experience. This is particularly important if you plan to run multiple applications simultaneously or use resource-intensive software.
• Storage: The minimum storage requirement is 2GB, but it is recommended to have at least 10GB for desktop use. This allows for a comfortable installation of the base system, as well as additional software and user data.

Void Linux Download

Once you have verified that your system meets the minimum system requirements, you can proceed to download the official ISO images from the Void Linux website. The download page offers a variety of images tailored to different use cases, including desktop, server, and minimal installations.

• Official ISO images: Visit the Void Linux Downloads page to access the latest ISO images. Choose the image that best suits your needs, and follow the installation guide to get started with Void Linux.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Before you begin, ensure you have a USB drive with at least 2GB of free space and a computer that meets the minimum system requirements.

1. Download the ISO: Visit the Void Linux Downloads page to access the latest ISO images. Choose the image that best suits your needs, such as the desktop or server edition.
2. Create Bootable Media: Use a tool like dd, Rufus, or BalenaEtcher to write the ISO to a USB drive. This will create a bootable USB drive that you can use to install Void Linux.
3. Boot from USB: Insert the USB drive into your computer and restart it. Enter your BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing F2, F12, or Del) and set the USB drive as the first boot device. Save your changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI settings. Your computer should now boot from the USB drive.
4. Start the Installer: Once you’ve booted from the USB drive, you’ll be presented with a login prompt. Log in as root (no password required) and run the void-installer command to start the installation process.
5. Follow the Prompts: The installer will guide you through the installation process. You’ll be prompted to:
   • Set your keyboard layout, network configuration, and timezone.
   • Partition your hard drive(s) using either a manual or guided approach.
   • Set a root password and create a user account.
   • Install the base system, including the kernel, system utilities, and essential packages.
6. Reboot: Once the installation is complete, remove the USB drive and reboot your computer. Your system will now boot into your new Void Linux installation.

Remember to refer to the official Void Linux installation documentation for more detailed instructions and troubleshooting tips.

Post-Install Setup

After successfully installing Void Linux, it’s essential to perform some post-installation steps to ensure your system is up-to-date, secure, and tailored to your needs. These steps will guide you through the process of updating your system, installing essential packages, enabling networking, setting up a user account, and configuring sudo privileges.

Here are the key steps to follow:

• Update the System:

  sudo xbps-install -Syu
  

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  This command updates your system to the latest packages available in the Void Linux repositories.

• Install Essential Packages:

  sudo xbps-install -S xorg xfce4 firefox
  

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  This command installs the Xorg display server, XFCE desktop environment, and Firefox web browser, providing a basic graphical user interface and web browsing capabilities.

• Enable Networking:

  sudo ln -s /etc/sv/dhcpcd /var/service/
  

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  This command enables the dhcpcd service, which is responsible for managing network connections and obtaining IP addresses via DHCP.

• Set Up a User:

  sudo useradd -m -G wheel yourusername
  sudo passwd yourusername
  

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  These commands create a new user account with a home directory and add the user to the wheel group, allowing them to use sudo privileges. You will also be prompted to set a password for the new user.

• Configure Sudo:

  sudo xbps-install -S sudo
  sudo visudo
  

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  The first command installs the sudo package, which allows users to execute commands with superuser privileges. The second command edits the sudo configuration file, enabling the use of sudo by members of the wheel group.

For more details on the post-installtion updates you can refer to this official documetation on Updating Void Linux post-installation.

Performance Benchmarks

Void Linux is renowned for its exceptional performance, boasting fast boot times and low memory usage. Independent tests have consistently shown that Void Linux can boot in under 10 seconds on modern hardware, and its XFCE desktop environment typically consumes less than 200MB of RAM at idle. The runit init system, which replaces systemd, is a significant factor in achieving this level of efficiency.

To put Void Linux’s performance into perspective, here is a table highlighting the boot times and idle memory usage of various Linux distributions:

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific hardware configuration and software versions used. However, this table provides a general idea of how Void Linux compares to other popular Linux distributions in terms of performance.

The runit init system, combined with Void Linux’s minimalist approach and XBPS package manager, contribute to its exceptional performance. This makes Void Linux an attractive option for users seeking a fast and efficient Linux distribution.

Package Management: XBPS vs. Others

Void Linux’s XBPS is a binary package manager that prioritizes speed and simplicity. In comparison to other popular package managers like Arch’s pacman or Debian’s apt, XBPS offers a unique set of features and advantages. Here are some key differences:

• Syntax: XBPS commands are designed to be easy to use and remember. The basic syntax includes xbps-install for installing packages, xbps-query for querying package information, and xbps-remove for removing packages.
• Repository Size: The XBPS repository is smaller compared to those of Arch or Debian, but it is actively growing and expanding its package offerings. This smaller size contributes to faster package management operations and reduced system bloat.
• Source Builds: For users who need more control or want to build packages from source, XBPS provides xbps-src, a tool specifically designed for building and managing source packages. This allows for greater flexibility and customization options.

XBPS is an integral part of Void Linux, and its design aligns with the distribution’s focus on speed, simplicity, and minimalism. By using XBPS, Void Linux users can enjoy a more streamlined package management experience that complements the distribution’s overall philosophy.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Void Linux is known for its minimalist approach, which can sometimes lead to a steeper learning curve for new users. Here are some common issues you might encounter and tips on how to troubleshoot them:

• Learning Curve: Void Linux is not designed for beginners, and its unique approach can be challenging for those new to Linux. Be prepared to consult online forums, wikis, and documentation to overcome any obstacles you might face.
• Sparse Documentation: While Void Linux’s official documentation is comprehensive, it’s not exhaustive. The official docs and the Void Linux subreddit are excellent resources to turn to when you need help or guidance. The community is active and willing to assist with any questions or problems you might have.
• Driver Issues: Due to Void Linux’s focus on minimalism, some hardware might require manual driver installation. This is particularly true for Wi-Fi and graphics drivers, which may not be included in the base installation. Be prepared to research and install the necessary drivers for your specific hardware configuration. This might require some technical knowledge, but the process can be rewarding and educational.

FAQs

1. Is Void Linux good for beginners?

Void Linux is best suited for intermediate to advanced users due to its minimalism and limited official documentation. This means that users who are new to Linux or require a more user-friendly experience might find Void Linux challenging to navigate. However, for those willing to invest time in learning and customizing their system, Void Linux offers a high degree of flexibility and control.

2. Why is Void Linux systemd-free?

Void Linux uses runit for simplicity, speed, and transparency, appealing to users who prefer alternatives to systemd. Runit is a lightweight init system that provides a more straightforward and efficient way of managing system services. This approach aligns with Void Linux’s focus on minimalism and performance, making it an attractive option for users seeking a systemd-free Linux distribution.

3. How is Void Linux different from Arch?

Void Linux and Arch Linux share some similarities, but they also have distinct differences. Void uses runit and XBPS, while Arch uses systemd and pacman. Void is also less documented but more minimal by default, which can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, Void’s minimalism allows for a more streamlined system with fewer unnecessary packages. On the other hand, the lack of documentation can make it more difficult for new users to find the information they need. Arch, on the other hand, has a more extensive documentation base and a larger community, making it easier for users to find help and resources.

4. What makes Void Linux unique?

Its independence, runit init, and musl/glibc choice set it apart from most other distros. Void Linux is not based on any other Linux distribution, which allows it to maintain its independence and focus on its unique approach. The use of runit as the init system and the option to choose between musl and glibc as the C library implementation further contribute to Void Linux’s distinctiveness.

5. Why is Void Linux better?

For users who want a fast, minimal, and systemd-free Linux, Void offers a unique blend of features and control. Void Linux’s focus on performance, minimalism, and flexibility makes it an excellent choice for users seeking a highly customizable and efficient Linux distribution. Additionally, Void’s independence and commitment to its unique approach ensure that users can expect a consistent and cohesive experience.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, you learned about the unique features and benefits of Void Linux, a fast, minimalist, and systemd-free Linux distribution. From its runit init system and XBPS package manager to its rolling release model and support for multiple architectures, Void Linux offers a distinct approach to Linux computing.

As you’ve seen, Void Linux is particularly suited for advanced users, developers, and those seeking a lightweight, customizable operating system. Its focus on performance, simplicity, and flexibility makes it an attractive option for those who value control and efficiency.

To further enhance your Void Linux experience, we recommend following these additional resources on Linux fundamentals, such as:

• 50+ Linux Commands Cheatsheet
• How to Work with the Linux File System
• An Introduction to Linux Permissions

By combining your knowledge of Void Linux with these essential Linux skills, you’ll be well-equipped to utilize the full potential of this unique distribution and optimize your Linux computing experience.