Overview

Calamares is a universal, distribution-independent Linux installer framework that makes installing operating systems fast and painless. Instead of every Linux distribution maintaining its own installer from scratch, Calamares provides a flexible, easy-to-customize framework that developers can adapt to their specific needs. It powers the installation experience in many popular Linux distributions today, offering a consistent, reliable, and user-friendly installation process whether you are setting up a system for personal use or testing multiple distributions.

Key Features

• Distribution-Independent: Works with any Linux distribution, providing a unified installation experience across different distros
• Modular Architecture: Uses a flexible module system where each installation step (partitioning, user setup, bootloader) is a separate, configurable module
• Branded Themes: Each distribution can customize the look and feel to match its branding while keeping the underlying workflow consistent
• Advanced Partitioning: Supports manual partitioning, automatic partitioning, LVM, encryption, and ZFS
• Multi-Language: Fully internationalized with support for dozens of languages

Why Use It

Calamares simplifies the installation process for both users and developers. For users, it offers a clean, consistent interface regardless of which distribution they are installing. For distribution maintainers, it eliminates the need to build and maintain a custom installer, letting them focus on the distribution itself.

Use Cases

• Distribution maintainers: Provide a professional installation experience without building an installer from scratch
• Linux newcomers: Install any Calamares-powered distribution with a familiar, guided process
• System administrators: Deploy multiple systems with consistent partitioning and configuration
• Live USB creators: Bundle Calamares with custom Linux builds for easy distribution

Platform

Linux

Licence

GNU General Public License v3.0

Website

calamares.io