Installing `yay` on Arch Linux

YAY

Installing yay on Arch Linux

They say Arch Linux is an operating system for the truly brave – those who don’t take the easy way out. If you’ve made it this far and are thinking of installing yay, then you’re no longer a newbie. Or, if you still are, you’re in for a one-of-a-kind adventure!

Step 1: Remember the Magic of sudo

Ever wondered why the sudo command feels so magical? With it, you can have a bit of fun with your system, and no one will scold you for it! So, let’s start the journey to install yay.

Step 2: First, We Need git

If you don’t have git yet, let’s make sure to get that sorted first. Run:

sudo pacman -S git

Now that we have git, we can move on to the real fun. And remember, pacman is your savior, and if you’re lucky, your best friend for the next few hours!

Step 3: Clone the yay Repository

With git installed, let’s explore the vast lands of AUR and grab yay. Think of yay as that friend who understands all your wishes, as long as you start your commands with “y.”

Clone the yay repository:

git clone https://aur.archlinux.org/yay.git

Now, you’ll have a folder with the yay source code. Now comes the fun part – building it!

Step 4: Harnessing the Power of makepkg

With the source code at hand, it’s time to create the package. Move into the yay folder:

cd yay

And build the package:

makepkg -si

Get ready to enter your password, and don’t be surprised if you see a few warnings along the way. But fear not – yay is worth the wait.

Step 5: Victory!

If you’ve done everything right, you now have yay installed! You can use it to install and update packages from the AUR. Try running:

yay -Syu

And watch as your Arch Linux gets one step closer to perfection.


Updating yay

Updating yay is a breeze. Here are three ways to keep it fresh:

  1. Update all packages, including yay:

    yay -Syu
    

    This command checks all installed packages, including those from AUR, and suggests updates if new versions are found. If there’s an update for yay, it’ll be installed as well.

  2. Only update yay:

    yay -S yay
    

    This will update just yay, if you’re not in the mood to update everything else.

  3. Running yay without arguments: If you simply type yay and press Enter, an interactive menu will appear. It’ll let you search for packages, update them, and more. But if you just want to update the system, it’s best to go with yay -Syu.


Congratulations, you’ve installed yay! Now you can proudly share that not only can you follow instructions, but you also know your way around package building. Best of luck with your Arch Linux adventures!


See also